(April 30, 2014) DETROIT — The 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab Special Service Vehicle (SSV) joins the brand’s growing police vehicle portfolio. It goes on sale this summer, offering the same capabilities, efficiency and durability as the Silverado 1500, with special features designed for police use.

The SSV package is available on Silverado 1500 Crew Cab in 1WT or 1LS trims, and includes the 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8, rated at 355 horsepower and delivering the highest EPA-rated fuel economy for a 2WD V-8 full-size pickup: 23 mpg highway. The engine is available with E85 capability. Police agencies can choose 2WD or 4WD models with the standard 6’6” pickup box or a shorter 5’8” box.

“Last year, the Silverado 1500 was awarded for its low cost of ownership, a key purchasing factor for municipalities and government agencies,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president for GM Fleet & Commercial.

“The EcoTec3 engine provides the best fuel economy of any V-8 and still gives agencies the power and capability they need from a full-size pickup.”

The Silverado SSV is equipped with a standard 170-amp high-output alternator and 730-CCA auxiliary battery, which allows officers to operate lights, radios, computers, cameras and other equipment while parked with the engine turned off, preserving the charge of the vehicle’s primary battery. The SSV pickup also is equipped with a 110-volt outlet for equipment, and comes standard with electrical power supply for four upfitter switches located on the center stack for easy control and accessibility.

The crew cab offers a vinyl rear seat along with large rear doors for easy entry when transporting passengers. Other available interior options include front center seat delete, which provides an open center console space for police equipment, an auxiliary dome lamp and an electronic four-wheel drive switch located on the dash.

An available common key option allows municipalities to use one key to operate all of their Silverado SSVs and 2015 Tahoe police vehicles. Chevrolet will offer ship-through options for the upfit of light bars, sirens, partitions and additional aftermarket equipment.