GM Defense Unveils Autonomous Silverado UGV Concept
The new unmanned ground vehicle is based on the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD and features an electric powertrain.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Trucks
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GM Defense has introduced an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) developed from the architecture of a Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD. This concept model replaces traditional human controls with a remote drive-by-wire system to support military logistics and medical evacuation.
Why it matters
The vehicle is designed to provide silent operations for critical military tasks, including casualty evacuation and logistics, by utilizing a fully electric powertrain. It also incorporates defensive capabilities such as counter-drone laser weaponry and advanced detection sensors.
The autonomous vehicle is powered by a 100kWh battery and supports an 8000-pound payload, which is equivalent to approximately 3600kg. The design is built upon the dual-rear-wheel skateboard architecture of the Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD.
The players
GM Defense
This subsidiary of General Motors specializes in the development of military-grade vehicles and advanced technologies for defense applications.
Chevrolet
A major automotive brand owned by General Motors that produces a wide range of consumer and commercial trucks, including the Silverado line.
Scout AI
A technology company focused on autonomous drive-by-wire systems designed for remote vehicle control.
The details
Engineers stripped the base Silverado platform of human-operated systems and internal combustion components to make room for a silent electric setup. The vehicle, which was showcased at the Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and Exhibition, integrates advanced Scout AI technology for remote operation.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: The UGV concept was officially unveiled.
June 2027: Demonstrator models are scheduled for delivery for Army testing.
Roadmap
This development reflects the broader automotive industry shift toward adapting consumer truck platforms for specialized autonomous military service. By repurposing the Silverado architecture, GM Defense positions itself to compete with other defense contractors focused on modular, electric-powered ground support assets.
This military-focused technology has no direct impact on civilian Silverado availability or retail pricing. Prospective buyers of the consumer 3500HD model will continue to see traditional combustion and standard electric powertrain options unaffected by this defense-specific project.
The takeaway
The transition to electric power for heavy military logistics underscores a growing demand for silent, remote-operated support vehicles on the battlefield. This project demonstrates how legacy truck architectures can be scaled for non-human tactical environments.
What happens next
GM Defense is scheduled to provide demonstrator models for U.S. Army testing by June 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in heavy-duty vehicles in the United States Trucks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WhichCar | New Car Reviews, Prices and Buying Advice.
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