One of the most interesting green cars at this year’s Detroit Motor Show is the X-Truck Extended-Range Electric Vehicle by Via Motors. It is based on the Chevrolet Silverado, and tries to make the Americans love of trucking a bit greener.

The X-Truck uses an electric drivetrain with 15-kilowatts (kW) of power capacity, and a a gasoline engine that works as a generator. The system runs the first 40 miles on batteries, then continue to drive on electricity generated from the onboard gas-electric generator for 400 miles or more.  The gasoline engine kicks to to charge the batteries and keep you going when the charge level drops below 20 percent.

“VIA’s partnership with PG&E, and the introduction of the world’s first extended-range electric work trucks, SUVs, and cargo vans in their fleet, marks a turning point in the electrification of the industry’s fleets,” said VIA Motors Board of Directors Member Bob Lutz. “As the world becomes more aware of the economic advantages of this ultra-clean technology, I am convinced that this type of electric vehicle will become very popular with consumers as well, and will help end our dependence on oil. It’s good for business, good for the environment and good for America.“