Quick Look
The 2005 GMC Sierra Hybrid is really just a typical Sierra 1500 pickup truck that's been fitted with an regenerative braking and in integrated starter and generator (ISG). ISG shuts the engine off at stoplights but instantly starts it up again when you step on the gas. Regenerative braking means juice is always available to the starter. Hybrid trucks provided a valuable learning tool for GM -- the automaker found it must either go deep into hybrid technology or go home. MSRP: est $32,000; Warranty: 3/36,000.
First Glance at the Sierra Hybrid Truck
The GMC Sierra Hybrid looks like a conventional extended cab Sierra 2WD pick up truck with extra stick-on graphics. These proclaim the vehicle's hybrid-ness. But this one is not really a hybrid. At least, it's not what the world thinks of as a hybrid. The truck has only two pieces of what can be labeled true hybrid technology: the integrated starter and generator (ISG) and regenerative braking.This Sierra won't attract the high school set with its regular size wheels, a 4-speed automatic, conventional 5.3L V-8 engine (5300 Vortec) and unfashionably long box. Which would probably make it just about ideal for a tradesman or a farmer – especially if that person has to work on job sites that aren't serviced with electricity. With the exception of the heavy sticker price, this one would seem to have almost everything you'd need or want in a working pick up truck.
