GM Service Parts Operations (SPO)
For release: Oct. 29, 2006 , 12:01 a.m. EDT
DETROIT – In 1918, when GM introduced its first pickup truck, the Chevrolet Model 490 Light Delivery, buyers were expected to supply their own cab, body and bed. Most purchasers did just that, creating their own unique vehicle by crafting their own or by purchasing components from suppliers. Today, buyers of GM’s newest full-size trucks can take personalization to the extreme by choosing from more than 100 accessories, led by GM’s innovative cargo management system.
When it comes to the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, personalization was not an afterthought. These pickup trucks were conceived from the beginning of the vehicle development process with accessories in mind. This is the first GM vehicle platform to use a dedicated accessories design staff housed at the GM Accessories Design Studio in Auburn Hills, Mich. GM moved forward with this design approach because it recognizes that giving customers more choice at the time of vehicle purchase can boost sales and satisfy more customers.
“It’s all about choice. Personalization is everywhere – from the MP3s we listen to and the cell phones we customize to the streaming video we watch,” says Nancy Philippart, executive director, GM Accessories. “People expect to have what they want, the way they want it. Why should vehicle buyers expect anything less?”
According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), vehicle personalization has grown tremendously in recent years and has become a $34-billion annual retail business, with light trucks representing more than $10.6 billion – the fastest-growing segment in the aftermarket accessories business. This growth is likely to continue as more and more customers say that they want their vehicle “their way.” In fact, according to GfK Custom Research, 75 percent of vehicle owners purchased accessories for their last vehicle, and the same percentage of those respondents plan to do so again.
“Pickup truck buyers comprise one of the broadest demographics of any industry segment and their tastes and needs span a very diverse spectrum,” said John Cafaro, GM design director for full-size trucks . “Given this, we wanted to design these trucks so they are easy for customers to purchase them exactly they way they want.”
GM makes it easy for consumers to find the accessories that suit their style or need. Available at the time of vehicle launch, Chevrolet and GMC dealers will offer a wide array of products, including an innovative cargo management system, performance parts, interior and exterior appearance accessories, electrical products and wheels.
GM’s cargo management system raises the bar for flexibility, durability and security
At the heart of a comprehensive accessories portfolio for the new pickups is a new, innovative cargo management system. Available on all Silverado and Sierra models, it is complemented by a wide range of dealer-ordered accessory packages. Three rails that run the length of the box sides and the forward box wall are secured with high-strength anchors and, unlike competitors’ systems, incorporate upper and lower tracks. Four adjustable tie-down brackets are included with each system and can be located anywhere on the tracks. Each tie-down is rated for a load point of 500 pounds (227 kg).
The rails enable the use of an overhead utility rack rated at 500 pounds (227 kg) loading capacity; a sliding diamond-pattern tool box; a sliding bed divider; two diamond-pattern side storage boxes or a bicycle mount. Unlike competitor systems, these accessories can use either the upper or lower rails, allowing numerous combinations that can easily fit together or bypass one another as they slide along the rails. For added durability, all system components that utilize the rails for functionality are powder coated. The system was also designed to work with hard and soft tonneau covers, which are also are available as accessories.
For those customers who need the added protection of secured storage for tools or toys, the tool boxes use a “codeable lock,” enabling only the vehicle key to lock and unlock the accessories.
GM plus-size and same-size accessory wheels and TPC tire systems
Silverado and Sierra lovers will find the “dubs” they want from their Chevrolet or GMC dealership. A selection of six stylish 20-inch wheel designs is available in a chrome finish. Each wheel is offered with a matching tire that has been selected specifically for GM’s new full-size pickup trucks using GM’s Tire Performance Criteria system. These GM Accessories wheels and TPC tire systems are designed to meet GM’s rigorous requirements for durability and safety, while delivering high levels of performance and style.
Electrical accessories enhance convenience, entertainment and security
Who says pickups have to be all work and no play? For those whose trucks will handle both, Chevrolet and GMC owners in 2007 will be able to choose smart electrical products that help enhance the convenience, comfort and security of passengers and drivers alike. GM’s all-new Personal Audio Link iPod adapter accessory will enable iPod users to enjoy the full benefit of their iPod in their GM vehicle. At $159 MSRP (dealer installation is extra), it represents a great value to those who want their music whenever and wherever they are. Personal Audio Link for Silverado and Sierra will be available in the first quarter of 2007.
Available on crew cab full-size pickups, GM Accessories introduces the Overhead Portable DVD System that allows the rear-seat passengers to enjoy a DVD movie while riding down the road and the capability to take it with them for enjoyment on the go. This portable DVD system integrates perfectly into the headliner using a specially designed docking station and will be available in the first quarter of 2007.
GM teamed up with KOSS Stereophones to provide an exciting new accessory for GM’s new pickups – noise canceling headphones. These state-of-the-art headphones use Active Noise Reduction to reduce annoying low-frequency noises and deliver crisp, clear sound. GM’s noise-canceling headphones are available today for $49.95 MSRP on all Silverado and Sierra models.
For those who love remote start but want more functionality, GM has the perfect solution: 2-Way Advanced Remote Start. This industry-leading technology features a key fob with two-way technology and a display screen that allows this accessory to display current vehicle status (i.e. lock, unlock, remote start) and critical vehicle data (including tire pressure, fuel level, odometer and content theft alarm status). It also offers an extended range compared to the factory system and can control a second vehicle if that vehicle is also equipped with this feature. The 2-Way Advanced Remote Start accessory will be available for Silverado and Sierra in the first quarter of 2007.
The GM Accessories Advantage
Chevrolet and GMC Accessories are backed by the GM Accessories Advantage:
Available at Chevrolet and GMC dealerships
For a complete list of Chevy or GMC Accessories and to find out about more ways to personalize GM full-size pickups, please visit www.chevrolet.com or www.gmc.com and look for the accessories tab under standard and optional features. All Chevrolet or GMC accessories can be purchased through each brand’s dealership network in the United States .
GM Accessories and GM Performance Parts are sold in North America by Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, Cadillac, GMC, Saturn, Saab and HUMMER dealerships. For more information about GM Parts, GM Accessories or GM Performance Parts, visit www.gmgoodwrench.com.
Contacts:
Tom Henderson
General Motors Communications
Phone: 810-606-3114
E-mail: Tom.e.henderson@gm.com
Cheryl McCarron
General Motors Communications
Phone: 810-606-3112
E-mail: Cheryl.mccarron@gm.com