Whether or not the Terra4's pair of 110-volt, 20-amp electrical outlets with standard 3-prong household plugs will make it to production is not known, but it stands to reason the feature will. Contractors will demand it.
Terra4 also features GM's fabulous Quadrasteer 4-wheel steering system. I've tested it in current pickups and was amazed at its benefits, especially in crowded parking lots. Basically it's an electro-mechanical rear steering system that turns the rear wheels up to 12 degrees based on a percentage of the front wheel angle. The amount the rear wheels turn is also based on calculations of vehicle speed. At high speeds, all wheels turn in parallel for improved control during lane changes and tight corners. At low speeds, front and rear wheels turn in opposition, greatly reducing the truck's turning radius.
"This concept is GMC's latest expression of an authentic professional grade truck, with capabilities that will certainly exceed consumer expectations," stated Lynn Myers, Pontiac-GMC General Manager. "We're very excited about this concept, and I think when people see all this truck can do - coupled with the fact that it gets up to 15 percent better gas mileage - they'll be excited, too."
While not every fan of the conservative GMC brand would easily warm up to the Terra4's futuristic styling if produced, its mechanical technology will no doubt be welcomed by many when it becomes available.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 4-door pick-up
- Layout: front engine, 4WD, 4WS
- Engine: 285 hp, 5.3-L, OHV V8
- Electric Motor: 4.8-kilowatt motor/generator
- Brakes (front/rear): regenerative disc/disc, ABS
- Web Site: www.gmcanada.com
