General Motors takes a major step towards making greener pickup trucks, as production of the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra 2500 HD bi-fuel pickup trucks gets underway at Fort Wayne plant. The Vortec 6.0L V8 engine in these trucks can run on petrol and compressed natural gas (CNG), offering a combined range of 650 miles.

CNG also produces less CO2 than petrol. Just about the only drawback this system results in is a small compromise on cargo capacity, as the CNG tank is located in the bed area. The pickups are available in standard and long-box and two-or-four wheel drive in the extended cab models.

Priced at $11,000 higher than normal models, these trucks are now available for order by fleet and retail customers. They are both covered by GM’s warranty, and have passed rigorous quality, durability and safety testing.

“Customers are choosing our bi-fuel trucks because they provide the same high level of GM truck performance and versatility but can also help businesses control their fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint,” said Ed Peper, General Motors U.S. vice president of Fleet and Commercial Sales.