IMPCO Automotive, a division of IMPCO Technologies, Inc. and a subsidiary of Fuel Systems Solutions, Inc. announced important news for its GM Pick-Up truck programs.
IMPCO has obtained certification by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and Environmental Protective Agency (EPA) for its bi-fuel systems installed in the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and GMC Sierra 2500HD pickup trucks. IMPCO has begun the OEM conversion of the 2015 Silverado and Sierra in its facility in Union City, Indiana and anticipates receiving ship to commerce (STC) approval from GM to release completed model year 2015 GM Bi-Fuel Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel systems for shipment in the near future.
GM has expanded its offering to include multiple cab and bed configurations for model year 2015.
As an extension of GM's manufacturing process, IMPCO Automotive installs the single-tank Bi-Fuel CNG system using OEM processes and standards. The entire gaseous fuel system adheres to GM's strict quality, durability, and safety testing requirements to ensure a superior product. Once the fuel system is in place, GM delivers these trucks to a dealer or to an up fitter for customer-ordered modifications. GM dealers are currently taking orders.
Additionally, IMPCO announced the final phase of its project to develop a bi-fuel CNG aftermarket direct injection fuel system for the 2015 Chevrolet 1500 Silverado with the EcoTec3 Direct Injection engine -- the first such direct injection system available in the US for the 2015 model year. This is a key step forward in satisfying fleet customer demand for a half-ton, 5L class of vehicles that combines the efficiency of direct injection with the environmental friendliness and cost savings of gaseous fuel system. A pilot vehicle was provided for the ride and drive events during the NTEA Work Truck Show held in Indianapolis March 5-7.
The project's final phase will include validation and EPA and CARB compliance of the bi-Fuel CNG system for Model Year 2015 EcoTec3 Direct Injection engine. IMPCO plans to release the complete fuel system throughout IMPCO Automotive's nationwide Certified Installation network beginning the last quarter of 2014.