The worksite doesn't care about a truck's spec sheet. What does matter is how those numbers translate into real-world results. It's one thing to know how well heavy-duty truck brakes work when they're under light-duty conditions, but what about their stopping power after hard use with heavy loads? Or what do torsional rigidity numbers mean when you're hauling cargo out of a ditch?

To find out this info, we hired AMCI Testing to conduct a series of independently verified tests. With nearly 30 years of experience, they are the single most sought-after source for the investigation and substantiation of automotive product claims. They put Silverado HD, Ford Super Duty and Ram HD through a series of tests designed to simulate everyday scenarios. And in order to substantiate their findings, AMCI requires each vehicle to turn in its best numbers up to 24 times at the hands of multiple drivers. This helps confirm the performance of each vehicle tested.

The job of Silverado HD is to allow you to do yours more efficiently. That's accomplished with a host of advanced technologies that allow for a stronger frame and a more powerful drivetrain. The results allow you to tow more and handle more payload than before. This potent combination didn't just beat its direct competitors in these AMCI-certified tests, it beat out all trucks to be named the Motor Trend 2011 Truck of the Year.

At the heart of Silverado HD is the available Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel. With increased horsepower and torque numbers, as well as highway fuel economy that was improved by more than 11% (1) over the previous generation, that powerplant was responsible for many of the victories in our head-to-head competition.

To handle all the torque and power created by the updated Duramax Diesel, we beefed up the available, legendary heavy-duty Allison® six-speed transmission. With a stronger torque converter and larger output shaft, it's not only tough enough to handle our series of tests, but your needs on the jobsite as well.

1. Based on GM testing
2. Maximum trailer weight ratings are calculated assuming a base vehicle, except for any option(s) necessary to achieve the rating, plus driver. The weight of other optional equipment, passengers and cargo will reduce the maximum trailer weight your vehicle can tow. See your Chevy dealer for additional details.
3. Maximum payload capacity includes weight of driver, passengers, optional equipment and cargo.