GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept heading to Detroit

GMC has revealed a new concept truck that the brand will be bringing to Detroit’s Motor Show: the Sierra All Terrain HD. This concept vehicle features a bold exterior design, enhanced all-terrain suspension and premium details that are part of GMC’s nature.

Based on the new 2011 Sierra HD the All Terrain HD concept, its production-based 4WD chassis has been modified but still features the same Duramax diesel/Allison 1000 six-speed powertrain. In order to deliver off-road capability, the All Terrain HD concept has received enhanced suspension and unique body dimensions, , including increased ground clearance and wider track. Still the concept vehicle maintains the HD levels of payload and trailering capacity.

“The Sierra All Terrain HD concept takes GMC’s outstanding new HD platform to the next level, marries it to the legendary Duramax diesel/Allison transmission, and provides a heavy-duty expression of GMC’s premium All Terrain package,” said Lisa Hutchinson, GMC product marketing director. “It delivers the exceptional capabilities of the Sierra HD – hauling, towing and performance – and applies them to the toughest driving environments. It’s the ultimate professional-grade tool for construction crews, ranchers and adventurers whose activities aren’t limited by where the pavement ends.”

The bold, accentuated features, the wide stance and tall profile clearly show the off-road character of the All Terrain HD.

Streamlined bumpers were designed to increase approach/departure angles and incorporate frame-mounted recovery hooks. The concept vehicle also features a large, airflow-optimized grille that is expected to maximize cooling in tough conditions. A forced-induction hood will deliver more air to the Duramax diesel engine.

“The design of the All Terrain HD is an expression of its capabilities – strong, functional and absolutely professional grade,” said Carl Zipfel, design manager. “We’re excited about the design elements and exploring how they could apply to future GMCs.”

At the rear, the cargo box features lockable, lighted storage compartments, along with a number of tie-down cleats, including a pair in the bed floor and two on each side of the bed.

The Sierra All Terrain HD concept is powered by the new, production 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel V-8 combined with an Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission. The engine has a power output of 397 hp and produces torque p to 1037 Nm.