2014 Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology is a SEMA-bound concept which is built with high-strength steel that makes it lighter, stronger and more efficient than the conventional carbon steel vehicles. In addition, this concept also displays Silverado's connectivity technologies such as the OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The high-strength steel is pressed while still in molten form. In fact, it can be 30 percent lighter than the carbon steel that has the same strength. In addition, it also delivers great weight savings at a lower cost than aluminum. This also contributes towards better fuel efficiency and capability.

Silverado 1500 which is powered by the EcotTec3 5.3L V-8 engine has an EPA fuel economy rated at 23 mpg on the highway. What is more, it offers a maximum trailering capacity of 11,200 pounds. As an option, Chevrolet is also offering the 6.2L V-8 engine equipped model as well as the new eight-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to them the Silverado's trailering capacity increases to 12,000 pounds.

For the construction of Silverado Toughnology the engineers have used nearly 67 % of the durable material. Precisely, it is utilized in the A-pillars, B-pillars, rockers and roof rails and strategic sections on the interior structure. Furthermore, the ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody, which helps improve performance in crashes.

The floor is made of roll-formed steel, which is also a lightweight material but more durable than the conventional stamped steel. Silverado also strategically uses aluminum in places such as the hood, thus saving 17 pounds over a conventional stamped steel hood.

To go into details, this particular vehicle, called Toughnology concept has a stripped-down appearance. The paint job resembles the look of raw, unpainted steel and is accented with steel molecule graphics. The black painted hood is the only visible metal exterior component that isn't steel.

There are also additional black and chrome exterior accents and Chevrolet Accessory 22-inch wheels coupled with off-road tires. The special content includes Chevrolet Accessories grille insert, tubular assist steps, soft, folding tonneau cover, washable carpet bedliner, fender flares and tinted headlamp lenses.

Other upgrades in terms of performance feature enhanced performance exhaust system and performance brakes. Under the hood there is a performance air intake system on its 5.3L engine which generates 355 horsepower (261 kW) and 519 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque.

The interior of the Silverado Toughnology is the same as this of the LTZ trim. It features heated, leather-appointed bucket seats, rear-seat entertainment system, the OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot and a wireless phone-charging mat.

Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology Concept (2014)
Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology Concept (2014) - picture 1 of 2
Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology Concept (2014) - picture 2 of 2

Source: Chevrolet