GM Defense Deploys Next Gen Tactical Vehicle

GM Defense’s latest prototype showcases the future of tactical military transportation.

January 21, 2025

Matt Wolfe

The Next Gen is based on the current Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD ZR2. (GM Defense)

GM Defense has unveiled the future of its tactical vehicles with the Next Gen prototype, which was exhibited at the annual AUSA meeting in Washington, D.C. for the first time late last year.

The Next Gen’s ICE powertrain is integrated with a 12-module version of GM’s Ultium battery pack. (GM Defense)

“Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing mobility solution that delivers tactically significant capabilities by integrating GM’s proven commercial technologies,” said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense. “This rugged and highly capable diesel-powered vehicle offers tactical advantages, such as Silent Operations, exportable power and increased range with extended mission duration.”

The Next Gen is based on the current Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD ZR2 and shares roughly 85-percent of its components with its civilian cousin. It is powered by GM’s corporate 2.8-L Duramax turbodiesel I4 engine, which is rated for 186 hp (139 kW) with 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) torque in this configuration.

The Next Gen features locking front and rear differentials for assured mobility across complex terrain. The standard 37-inch (940-mm) tires help to maintain high approach and departure angles for clearing challenging obstacles. The dampers are Multimatic’s Dynamic Suspension Spool Valves, which reportedly optimize on- and off-road performance and ride quality.

The Next Gen’s ICE powertrain is integrated with a 12-module version of GM’s Ultium battery pack. The pack powers a pair of electric drive motors for the front and rear axles that enable Silent Drive and Silent Watch, which according to GM Defense, enables low acoustic and thermal signatures to make the vehicles harder to detect when stealth is a priority.

The Next Gen is powered by GM’s corporate 2.8-L Duramax turbodiesel I4 engine, which is rated for 186 hp (139 kW) with 369 lb-ft (500 Nm). (GM Defense)

GM Defense states that the Next Gen is slated to be offered in two-, four- and six-seat configurations to support multi-mission capabilities such as command and control, launched effects, network extension, counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) anti-armor, and casualty evacuation. The Next Gen will also offer active and passive safety features, including roll-over protection, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, four- and five-point harnesses and 360-degree camera capabilities.

Additional features of the Next Gen include exportable power capable of charging mission systems, a tactically significant range with extended mission duration, fuel demand reduction with the ability to utilize the existing JP8 fuel infrastructure and lower maintenance requirements thanks to a reduced number of parts and subsystems in the propulsion system. The Next Gen is also designed to be autonomy-ready with manned and unmanned options and add-on armor capable.

GM Defense also stated that the Next Gen will share all commonality across variants for ease of production and maintenance and is designed to accommodate mission packages for increased lethality and protection, including remote weapon systems, C-UAS and launched effects.

“Next Gen’s ‘wow’ factor is right behind the wheel,” said John Johnson, vice president of GM Defense’s Government Solutions and Strategy Division. “Customers need to drive this highly capable vehicle to see, feel and hear the benefits. Next Gen fundamentally changes the discussion around modern mobility through the tactical benefits delivered by its propulsion system, including its ability to address the power gap in the formation.”