The Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans are slated to receive plug-in hybrid powertrains from Echo Automotive next year.
Already fitting their EchoDrive PHEV system into the Ford E-Series vans and F-Series pickup trucks, the folks over at Echo Automotive will begin rolling out hybrid Chevy Express 2500 and 3500 models, along with its GMC Savana twin.
According to the company, the EchoDrive system is a “non-invasive plug-in hybrid solution for new or existing vehicles” and offers “a low-cost point of entry to high fuel efficiency.” Echo Automotive has a nationwide network of install and service providers and plans to begin production of PHEV Express and Savana vans in the first quarter of 2015.
“The addition of support for the Chevrolet Express platform is a natural expansion for EchoDrive from both a technical and a market perspective, and one that allows more fleets to benefit more fully from our EchoDrive plug-in hybrid system. We look forward to demonstrating the impact EchoDrive delivers to fleet managers in reducing operating costs, delivering greater fuel efficiency and promoting sustainability across both the Ford and GM platforms,” Dan Kennedy, CEO of Echo Automotive, said in a statement.
Echo Automotive is not the only company to offer aftermarket hybrid GM vans. VIA Motors has already showcased electrified versions of the Express van (both passenger and cargo) and the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show.
These vans are built in Mexico and have a battery range of up to 40 miles, while the range extender provides over 100 mph in typical daily driving.
According to the company, the EchoDrive system is a “non-invasive plug-in hybrid solution for new or existing vehicles” and offers “a low-cost point of entry to high fuel efficiency.” Echo Automotive has a nationwide network of install and service providers and plans to begin production of PHEV Express and Savana vans in the first quarter of 2015.
“The addition of support for the Chevrolet Express platform is a natural expansion for EchoDrive from both a technical and a market perspective, and one that allows more fleets to benefit more fully from our EchoDrive plug-in hybrid system. We look forward to demonstrating the impact EchoDrive delivers to fleet managers in reducing operating costs, delivering greater fuel efficiency and promoting sustainability across both the Ford and GM platforms,” Dan Kennedy, CEO of Echo Automotive, said in a statement.
Echo Automotive is not the only company to offer aftermarket hybrid GM vans. VIA Motors has already showcased electrified versions of the Express van (both passenger and cargo) and the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show.
These vans are built in Mexico and have a battery range of up to 40 miles, while the range extender provides over 100 mph in typical daily driving.