General Motors is known for a lot of things, but at the heart of the brand we find a long lineup of impressive pickups that deliver exceptional towing capability. GM trucks stand out in multiple ways, offering buyers a remarkable lineup of rugged, powerful full-size and heavy duty trucks that are always ready to get the job done. Part of what makes GM trucks so efficient with towing are the multiple technologies that assist before and during any towing operation. Here we take a look at some of the most impressive GM towing technologies offered on the lineup of new GMC and Chevrolet trucks including the GMC Sierra 1500 and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.  

ProGrade Trailering System

At the core of GM’s trailblazing towing technologies is the ProGrade Trailering System, available in select GMC and Chevrolet pickups. This suite of tools and technology assists drivers at every phase of the towing process – from hitching up the trailer to maneuvering it and even monitoring its status on the go. The system integrates a series of applications, software, and camera systems designed to enhance visibility, connectivity, and convenience when towing.

The ProGrade Trailering System includes features like Trailer Sway Control, Auto Grade Braking, and Diesel Exhaust Brake on certain models, helping to maintain control and stability even with heavy loads. The Hitch Guidance with Hitch View uses a rear camera view to assist in aligning your hitch, taking the guesswork out of the process. 

Trailering App Integration

The modern driver demands digital solutions, and GM doesn’t disappoint. They have integrated their trailering technologies with an innovative smartphone app, GMC Trailering App (and Chevrolet Trailering App for the Chevy lineup). This app allows you to conduct a pre-trip towing checklist, test trailer lights, diagnose trailer electrical system issues, and even monitor tire pressure. 

Moreover, the app offers a Learning Center that features a glossary of towing terms, tips, and how-to videos to support drivers new to the towing scene. This effective blend of tech and education empowers drivers to tow with greater confidence.

Advanced Camera Systems

Arguably, the jewel in GM’s towing technology crown is their Advanced Camera Systems. These provide up to 15 unique views, including a transparent trailer view, that significantly enhance drivers’ awareness and safety when towing. The transparent trailer view merges images captured from the tailgate and an accessory camera mounted on the rear of the trailer. This gives the illusion of “seeing through” the trailer, allowing drivers to monitor traffic conditions behind them more easily.

The additional camera views include side view cameras for monitoring blind spots, a rear top-down view for easier hitching, and an inside trailer view for keeping an eye on cargo. Such comprehensive visibility drastically reduces stress and enhances safety when towing and maneuvering large trailers.

Advanced Trailering Package

Rounding up GM’s robust towing technologies is the Advanced Trailering Package. This package includes an integrated trailer brake controller that allows drivers to adjust the amount of brake force applied to the trailer’s electric brakes when the vehicle’s brakes are applied. It also includes a Hitch Area Lighting system that illuminates the rear of the vehicle to assist with hitching or unhitching a trailer in low-light conditions. 

In conclusion, GM has not just been building trucks; they’ve been building confidence into every aspect of towing. With the introduction of these towing technologies, they are redefining what it means to tow and haul. This blend of technology, digital connectivity, and user-centric design gives drivers an unprecedented level of control and convenience, making the towing experience safer and easier than ever before.