Chevy Silverado Cheyenne Model is the Z/28 of Pickups

Sometimes proving that less is more, Chevrolet has uncovered its fresh Silverado Cheyenne Concept ahead of its public debut at the 2013 SEMA Event this week.

Including an EcoTec 6.2-liter V8 motor under the hood, the Silverado Cheyenne Concept packs 421 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque and has a lowered curb weight, providing it an exceptional power-to-weight ratio. Thanks to carbon fiber substitutes for the bumpers, tailgate and inner cargo box, the Silverado cut around 200 pounds off its normal weight of 4,502 lbs from the 5.3-liter-fitted Silverado regular cab with a 6’6″ box.

However, fitting in at SEMA isn’t just about more performance and a reduced load. The Silverado Cheyenne Concept has a reduced ride height, a rear stabilizer bar and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes for upgraded handling and braking capabilities. The carbon brakes are practically borrowed from the Camaro Z28 along with the 19-inch wheels finished in charcoal paint. To shave even more weight off the vehicle, the American company tossed out the trailer hitch, spare interior, interior center console and some of the sound-deadening material.

Recaro sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel are placed inside the vehicle. What’s even more exciting is that a Chevrolet chairman announced that though it’s a concept, the company is “continually searching new ways to give Silverado clients more.” Probably if the feedback is good at SEMA, this could turn into a production car, albeit not as extreme.

“Lightweighting is a traditional method of making the most of a car’s performance which Chevrolet has showed time and again with cars like the original 2001 Corvette Z06 and the 2014 Camaro Z/28,” informed Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “And like those cars, the Cheyenne complements its lower weight with more horsepower.”