GM is looking to conserve cash any way it can, so programs that might not be considered "core" projects are getting pushed aside. The latest casualty is the 4.5-liter Duramax V8, a light-duty diesel engine that was originally scheduled to become an option in the 2010 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks.
According to Automotive News, the program has been put on hold indefinitely. "We have to make tough decisions right now," said GM Powertrain spokeswoman Susan Garavaglia.
The innovative engine design was hailed as a breakthrough when it was unveiled last year. "By using integral cylinder head exhaust manifolds, integral cam cover intake manifolds and a narrow cylinder block, designers saved space and reduced the engine's weight," said Gary Arvan, chief engineer for the 4.5-liter V8 diesel at the engine's introduction.
vvk says:
07:18 PM, 03/10/09
This has nothing to do with cash. It has everything to do with low fuel prices.
Slap a $10/gal tax on gasoline and these things will start flying out the door in a big hurry!
matt1320 says:
07:19 PM, 03/10/09
If they want to save money, end GMC in favor of Chevy trucks and SUVs, and end Pontiac and Buick in favor of Chevy and Caddy cars. That, in addition to ending Saturn, Hummer, and Saab.
hondacura4 says:
08:25 PM, 03/10/09
Its really a shame that a lot interesting and competitive products wont be on the market because of the current economic situation. I really wanted to see the light duty diesels from GM, Toyota, Ford and Dodge as well as the 2.2 i-DTEC diesel (TSX) from Honda and the S2000 and NSX replacements.
firstwagon says:
08:25 AM, 03/11/09
That engine has the potentional to give GM a huge advantage over Ford and Dodge.
90% of pick-ups should be diesels.
Very disappointed to see short sited cost cutting ruin that.
rick8365 says:
08:58 AM, 03/11/09
+1 hondacura and firstwagon!
logansneo says:
10:44 AM, 03/11/09
I agree that ending all brands accept Chevrolet and Cadillac would be the smartesd/most cost saving move GM could do and cut out duplication of products. The Pontiac G8 should replace the Impalla, possibly re-badged as Chevelle, and sell Buick either to China or completely eliminate it's domestic presence and allow Opel to continue in Europe.
As far as the 4.5 liter diesel, I see many applications that could benefit from it's production including alternatives in car lines such as the aforementioned G8 and Camaro.
bbechtel16 says:
02:38 PM, 03/11/09
*sad face*
cwc1 says:
06:24 PM, 03/11/09
I was afraid this was coming since I had heard no mention of this engine after reading a 2007 article in Automotive news about it which mentioned it was due to be offered for 2009.
Absolutely, this engine could be a competitive advantage for GM - I sure hope they get to produce it at some point.
hondacura4 says:
04:47 PM, 03/12/09
With diesel here @ $1.99 a gallon it seems logical...at least for the short term.