Chevrolet’s new patented air intake system, featured on the 2017 Silverado HD truck, was tested in the most challenging real-world driving scenarios in conditions from misty rains to monsoon-level downpours; from powdery snow to wind-driven ice pellets; from desert dust to arctic cold.
Chief engineer Eric Stanczak said, “The 2017 Silverado HD was engineered to provide maximum utility for our customers in even the most extreme situations. While developing this all-new induction system, we considered our customers towing a maximum-weight trailer through the Eisenhower Tunnel on a hot, rainy summer day.”
At more than 11,000ft² above sea level, the Eisenhower Tunnel is the highest vehicle tunnel in the world and one of the highest elevations of any roadway in North America.
Kevin Dunn, global vehicle performance for splash engineering, said, “Big, heavy raindrops from a thunderstorm are relatively easy to eliminate from air. The more challenging issue comes from the mist-like spray generated by semitrucks on wet highways. Those very fine water droplets prove more challenging to separate from the air.
“The air intake is an elegant solution that works well with water droplets of all sizes. For customers, the results deliver maximum engine performance and even greater towing confidence.”
June 20, 2016