2017 Chevrolet Silverado HD: Innovations in Air Intake for Enhanced Performance
The 2017 Chevrolet Silverado HD has arrived, unveiling an innovative air intake system designed to deliver cool, dry air into the engine. This patented feature aims to maintain consistent performance and optimal engine temperatures even under the most demanding conditions. Extensive testing rooted in real-world circumstances was the key to achieving this engine-toughening feature.
Distinguished Hood Scoop and Air Intake System
What sets this Silverado HD apart is the imposing hood scoop that catches your attention. However, it is not there for aesthetics alone - it plays a crucial role in the truck's air intake system. This novel system channels about 60 percent of the air required by the Duramax diesel engine from an inlet at the front of the hood. The drawn-in air is nearly at the ambient temperature, significantly cooler than the air found under the hood.
Performance Enhancements from Cooler Air
The cooler air ingested by the engine aids its operation under load, particularly in scenarios where engine and transmission temperatures may rise rapidly. This cooling effect empowers the Duramax diesel to preserve its power and vehicle speed, enabling impressive trailering capabilities even in the toughest conditions. Furthermore, at highway speeds, the intake system benefits from a ram-air effect, aiding in cramming more air into the engine. Moreover, the air filter housing also brings in an additional 40 percent of air from a dry location in one of the front fenders, further contributing to the engine's breathing capacity even if the hood intake is obstructed.
The Focus on Maximum Utility
Engineer Eric Stanczak explained that the primary objective during the 2017 Silverado HD's development was to maximize utility in even the most extreme situations. The team put a lot of thought into extreme real-world conditions - imagine towing a maximum-weight trailer through the Eisenhower Tunnel on a scorching, rainy summer day. At over 11,000 feet (3352.8 meters) above sea level, the tunnel is the world's highest vehicle tunnel and one of North America's highest roadways.
Air Quality: Clean and Dry
But it's not all about cool air. For optimal engine performance, the air must also be clean and dry. This is why the functional hood scoop features an air/water separator. The air charge enters an expansion chamber containing a sharp, 180-degree turn on its way to the air filter housing. This sudden change in velocity leads to the formation of larger, heavier droplets from the humidity or mist, which are then flung against the housing wall and drained out, while the dry air continues to the engine.
Real-world Testing and Challenges
In testing the new system, Chevrolet considered every conceivable driving condition - from misty rains to monsoon-level downpours, from powdery snow to wind-driven ice pellets, from desert dust to arctic cold. Interestingly, Kevin Dunn from the global vehicle performance for splash engineering team, points out that the biggest challenge wasn't necessarily from torrential downpours but from the mist-like spray generated by semitrucks on wet highways. This innovative air intake system is designed to deal effectively with water droplets of all sizes, resulting in enhanced engine performance and greater towing confidence for customers.
-Ed
2017 Chevrolet Silverado HD
