What once were ideas for work trucks of the future have just gone on sale at GMC dealerships.
They are two highly focused Sierra Pro Plus pickups, delivering the last word in work trucks for those who need more than just transportation.
The new pickup models were originally concept trucks at previous Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) shows and were previewed just before their official introduction at the 2001 event. A companion van model concept, the Savana Pro, had its first showing on the SEMA floor for 2000.
Development of the Sierra Professional Concept Pickup began by polling several contractors, in addition to an informal study conducted at 24 jobsites around the metro Detroit area.
Among the respondents, GMC found that 39% used a laptop computer in their vehicle and 100% used cellular phones, with 72% using a particular brand of cellphone.
Starting with the center console, added features include a compartment for file storage, a clipboard pocket, a removable 12-volt hot/cold "lunch box" cooler, portable printer, a cellphone "docking" drawer, removable trash bin, hot/cold cup holders, generator control panel with 12-volt power access points and, finally, a power-operated laptop "docking" drawer.
Under the rear seat, a fitted storage unit houses the generator control unit and numerous compartments. Also accessible from the rear seat are two drawers that occupy the area underneath the front seats.
The Sierra Professional’s integrated storage and work-through trim are wrapped around a world-class mobile office. The centerpiece of this mobile workstation is a Compaq laptop computer featuring a power retracting drawer that hides the computer out of sight when not in use. For safety reasons, the PC is only operable when the truck is parked.
Other technology incorporated into the Professional includes a GPS navigation system, a multi-function LCD touch screen installed in place of the AM/FM radio and, of course, GM’s OnStar communication and security system.
In an effort to develop a van to follow the Sierra Professional pickup, GMC worked closely with Home Depot and a focus group of contractors as part of a recent project to determine what professionals would desire in their ultimate van.
The Savana Pro was designed to address their needs in a full-size van that will follow the Sierra pickup and offer the utmost in carrying equipment and accessibility.
Inside, the concept van features storage cabinets, component bins and service cases from Bott USA with adaptable dividers to accommodate a contractor’s changing needs.
If that weren’t enough, Venture Industries’ exterior carbon fiber lift doors open to the interior storage bins for fast street-side access to often-used items.
Just as with the pickup concept, an AuraGen underhood generator can produce up to 5,000 watts of AC power. Up front is the mobile office, enabling real-time communication with other vehicles in the fleet and message centers.
The first Sierra Professionals that are just now going on sale are 1500 Series two- and four-wheel-drive models in extended cab and short box configurations with 6,200- and 6,400-lb GVW ratings.
Standard power in the two-wheel-drive model is the Vortec 4800 V8 with the Vortec 5300 V-8 optional.
The Savana Pro van appears likely to become available early in 2002. One of its features which goes beyond those seen in some other vans is enhanced lighting which illuminates the entire interior of the van.
