GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), is set to reveal its cutting-edge “Next Gen” tactical vehicle prototype at AUSA 2024, the annual meeting and exposition of the Association of the U.S. Army, taking place from October 14-16, 2024, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.
Advanced Tactical Innovation
The “Next Gen” tactical vehicle is built on the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2 platform, showcasing the blend of durability and advanced technology that GM Defense is known for. This rugged vehicle integrates GM’s 2.8L Duramax® turbo-diesel engine alongside a 12-module battery pack. The inclusion of drive motors for the front and rear axles enables the vehicle to leverage Silent Drive and Silent Watch technologies, making it less detectable in combat zones. These stealth capabilities allow for covert movement in high-threat environments, while the onboard power system can support high-energy mission-critical devices, including sensors and weaponry.
Tactical Advantages
The “Next Gen” vehicle is designed to provide multiple operational advantages on the battlefield:
- Silent Drive & Silent Watch: Minimizes acoustic and thermal signatures for stealth operations.
- Exportable Power: Powers essential mission systems.
- Extended Range: Supports longer mission durations, crucial for high-stakes operations.
- Autonomy-Ready: The vehicle is designed for both manned and unmanned configurations, enhancing flexibility in modern combat scenarios.
- Add-On Armor: Can be equipped with additional armor for increased protection.
Steve duMont, president of GM Defense, emphasized the significance of these technologies: “Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing mobility solution that delivers tactically significant capabilities by integrating GM’s proven commercial technologies. Warfighters deserve the latest technology, and our Next Gen mobility solution offers immediate, field-ready capabilities.”
Enhanced Safety and Mobility
The vehicle also includes a suite of active and passive safety features to protect troops:
- Roll-over protection
- Anti-lock braking
- Electronic stability control
- Four- and five-point seat belt harnesses
- 360-degree camera capabilities for enhanced situational awareness
Sustainment and Efficiency
Next Gen is not only built for performance but also for operational efficiency. It offers:
- Reduced Fuel Demand: Lower fuel consumption, using existing JP8 fuel infrastructure.
- Lower Maintenance Requirements: Simplified propulsion systems mean fewer parts and easier maintenance.
- Sustainability in the Field: Reduced logistics tail for fuel, batteries, and vehicle parts improves operational sustainability.
Multi-Mission Capabilities
Available in two-, four-, and six-seat configurations, the Next Gen is optimized for a wide range of mission types, including command and control, counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS), casualty evacuation, and more.
John ‘JD’ Johnson, GM Defense’s Vice President of Government Solutions and Strategy, encouraged potential customers to experience the vehicle firsthand: “Next Gen fundamentally changes the discussion around modern mobility through its tactical benefits. We invite customers to test drive it and see its capabilities in action.”
AUSA 2024 Showcase
In addition to unveiling the Next Gen vehicle, GM Defense will showcase several innovative military solutions at AUSA 2024:
- Stable Tactical Expeditionary Electric Power (STEEP): A tactical microgrid solution.
- Infantry Utility Vehicle (IUV): Equipped with Silent Tactical Energy Enhanced Dismount (STEED) systems.
- Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV): A light tactical utility vehicle designed for enhanced squad mobility.
The “Next Gen” tactical vehicle is a pivotal step forward in military mobility, combining GM’s commercial expertise with advanced defense technology to deliver enhanced performance and mission-critical capabilities to the modern battlefield.
Source: General Motors
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
