GM DEFENCE'S NEXT-GEN TACTICAL VEHICLE PITCHED AS A HUMVEE SUCCESSOR.
GM Defense, a powerhouse subsidiary of General Motors (GM), is redefining battlefield mobility with the unveiling of its latest creation—the “Next Gen” tactical vehicle prototype. Set to make its debut at AUSA 2024, the annual gathering of the Association of the U.S. Army, this rugged vehicle takes tactical performance to a whole new level. Based on the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2, the Next Gen is a hybrid beast, blending the raw power of GM's 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine with advanced electric technology for a stealthy, high-performance solution. Designed for the modern battlefield, the Next Gen vehicle isn’t just tough - it’s smart. Equipped with a 12-module battery pack and dual drive motors for both the front and rear axles, this vehicle delivers cutting-edge Silent Drive and Silent Watch capabilities. These stealth technologies make the vehicle hard to detect in high-threat zones, giving troops the tactical edge they need for covert operations. Whether it’s slipping into enemy territory or staying off the radar during extended missions, the Next Gen is built to help warfighters go unnoticed. Steve duMont, President of GM Defense, highlights its impact: “Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing mobility solution, integrating GM’s proven commercial tech. Silent Operations, exportable power, and extended mission duration give our warfighters the tools they need to outmaneuver adversaries. It’s ready to be customized and fielded now.”
Tactical advantages at every turn - Next Gen is engineered with mission-critical performance in mind. Here’s how it stacks up:
Silent Drive and Silent Watch: Reduced acoustic and thermal signatures for stealthy manoeuvres.
Exportable Power: Onboard capability to power mission systems on the move.
Extended Range & Mission Duration: Boosted endurance for those long-haul operations.
Autonomy-Ready: Capable of manned and unmanned missions, providing flexibility for future warfare.
Add-On Armor: Configurable for enhanced protection in high-risk environments.
JD Johnson, VP of GM Defense’s Government Solutions and Strategy Division, said it best: “The ‘wow’ factor is right behind the wheel. When you drive this vehicle, you feel the difference. The Next Gen fundamentally changes what we expect from tactical mobility, especially when it comes to addressing the power gap in formations.” Next Gen doesn’t just bring power - it delivers versatility. Available in two-, four-, and six-seat configurations, it’s designed to support a wide range of mission types, from command and control to casualty evacuation and counter-UAS operations. Whether it's outfitted for anti-armour missions or acting as a mobile network extension, Next Gen is ready for whatever the battlefield throws its way. Next Gen isn’t just built for battle—it’s built for the long game. With reduced fuel demands and lower maintenance needs thanks to its simplified propulsion system, it helps cut down on the logistical footprint. The vehicle can run on standard JP8 fuel infrastructure, further streamlining support in the field, while requiring fewer replacement parts for easier upkeep. With decades of research and billions invested by General Motors, GM Defense’s Next Gen is set to change the landscape of modern military mobility. Offering unmatched stealth, power, and flexibility, this is the tactical vehicle built for the missions of today and the battlefields of tomorrow. Now to see if the powers that be think this monster will fill the Humvee void.
Take a look at the YouTube video from the people who know a heck of a lot more than we do about military vehicles as they take a look at a sort of pre-production version of their next-generation military vehicle that they hope will be a Humvee successor: What’s it like to drive the GM Defense next-generation tactical vehicle? | Military Times
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