VIA to Sell Chevy Cargo Vans, Silverados Converted to Electric in 2014

First units likely will be Chevrolet Express vans the electric-vehicle maker will fit with an electric motor and generator powered by a 4.3L V6 engine; extended-cab Silverado pickups are next in line

Via Van 2012 Electrified

VIA Motors expects to sell its first extended-range electric vehicles starting in 2014, President Alan Perriton told WardsAuto.

The first units likely will be Chevrolet Express cargo vans modified by VIA at its Stockton, CA, facility. Next in line are Chevy Silverado extended-cab pickups. Orem, UT-based VIA also is working longer term on an electric version of the Chevy Suburban SUV, named the Presidential.

The trucks boast a 400-hp electric motor plus GM’s 4.3L V6 under the hood, which acts as a generator and range extender for the electric powertrain. The trucks will be marketed primarily to fleets such as telecoms, utilities and government agencies, Perriton says, and will be sold under the VIA nameplate, not Chevrolet.

(more on VIA's electric trucks . . . )

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