The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD is Stronger Than it Looks

Towing a trailer, camper, or boat can be intimidating for enthusiasts who have never done it before. Don’t even get us started when there’s a towed vehicle attached; the driving experience for the SUV or truck feels different. Truck enthusiasts must master maneuvering into different entry and exit points, as the wind plays a significant role in anyone’s driving performance. Just seeing a heavy-duty pickup truck towing a large RV on the road inspires a sense of awe and respect for the sheer power of these machines.

Trucks such as the 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD are built to handle some serious weight. The EPA classifies these heavy-duty vehicles as those with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) above 8,500 pounds, considering the vehicle’s curb weight, all passengers, and cargo. The 2024 GMC Sierra 2500 HD has a GVWR of 10,150 pounds, which puts it firmly in the heavy-duty category. What’s impressive is that the Sierra 2500 HD can tow almost twice its weight if adequately equipped.

Trucks are becoming more prominent and stronger than ever before. Ten years ago, the 2013 GMC Sierra HD could only tow a maximum of 17,800 pounds. Now, the new Sierra 2500 HD can tow up to 22,500 pounds – an increase of 4,000 pounds since last year (2022). 

Truck manufacturers are constantly striving to meet the needs and preferences of their customers. The automakers carefully analyze the market and competition before setting their goals for the next model. Car makers, especially GMC, must understand what their core supporters desire in a truck and what they need. For instance, if a truck’s primary users only need to tow a small pop-up camper, adding more towing capacity wouldn’t make sense. However, regarding the Sierra 2500 HD, GMC has clarified that buyers mean serious business. Sierra enthusiasts demand a truck that can tow a large speed boat or a fifth-wheel trailer with a big RV.

Regarding fifth-wheel travel trailers, there are a few things to remember. For starters, pickup fans need a fifth-wheel hitch to tow the travel trailer. The hitch also requires a unique coupling mechanism in the truck’s bed. Before enthusiasts hit the road, they must ensure their vehicles have enough horsepower, torque, and body strength to handle the trailer’s weight. The coupling device has a steel structure designed for the most balanced and safest ride possible. Furthermore, there are rubber components between the steel parts to maintain solid handling and ensure a smooth journey.

At the top of the line, the GMC Sierra 2500 HD features the potent 6.6L turbocharged diesel engine paired with a 10-speed transmission. The 2024 model generates an impressive 470 horsepower and a whopping 975 pound-feet of torque at low revolutions per minute, providing unparalleled pulling power. 

General Motors takes its design process seriously and runs various tests to ensure its vehicles can withstand different environmental conditions. One of these tests includes a climatic wind tunnel that simulates wind speed, humidity, and temperature. Engineers place thermocouples, like thermoelectric thermometers, to collect data throughout the development truck. Up to 200 are used to communicate the data to the team.

According to GMC engineer Shawn Norwood, the automaker goes beyond the standard SEA tests by conducting even more extreme evaluations. The automaker’s assessments consider the vehicle’s handling, as well as powertrain cooling, to ensure that the truck is strong enough to handle the most challenging conditions. In the heavy-duty segment, most buyers use their trucks for towing, so it’s a crucial factor to consider when designing these vehicles.

As more and more people hit the road for camping, overlanding, and towing, GMC acknowledges that plenty of new drivers are still getting their feet wet. For those who are inexperienced when it comes to driving with a towed vehicle, the American automaker has developed a technology known as the “Transparent Trailer.” The innovative system allows drivers to essentially “see through” the trailer by using cameras that stitch together to create a clear view of the road ahead. With this advanced technology, drivers can feel more confident and empowered on the road, making the towing experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

Test-Drive Your 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 at Southern Buick Greenbrier 

There’s a beautiful 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 collecting dust for you at  Southern Buick GMC Greenbrier. However, if a commanding pickup is not your thing, then don’t fret. We offer a full selection of new vehicles or pre-owned options. Additionally, our passionate finance team will get you settled into a finance or lease plan that works for you rather than the other way around. However, if you are still getting ready for a seamless transition, we have the best professional technicians within our Buick GMC service department. Southern Buick GMC Greenbrier offers premium vehicles and services at your fingertips, with thousands of customers served in the Chesapeake area. We look forward to hearing from you and exceeding your expectations. 

Photo Source/Copyright: GMC