Chevrolet and GMC Truck Introduce Easy Access System for Pickup Models

Strategic Insights -

Debuting a first in the truck industry, Chevrolet and GMC Truck have introduced the all-new Easy Access System for both full-size and compact extended cab pickup models. This innovative panel, located behind the front door, swings open to allow quick and easy access to the rear interior compartment for both people and cargo. The system is designed to meet the specific needs of different buyers, with the panel located behind the front passenger door on full-size Chevrolet C/K and GMC Truck Sierra Pickup models, and behind the driver's door on Chevrolet S-Series and GMC Track Sonoma models.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Easy Access System is a first in the truck industry, offering a convenient way to store mobility aids for drivers and occupants with disabilities, including a height-adjustable shoulder belt, armrest, map pocket, and entry assist handle with coat hook.
  • The system was designed through extensive customer clinic testing, revealing differences in tastes between full-size and compact extended cab buyers, with 95 percent of extended cab owners expressing interest in owning the panel.
  • The panel will be optional for both truck models at a price less than popular options like air conditioning, with production start-up in November for Chevrolet C/K and GMC Truck Sierra Extended Cab Pickups, and December for Chevrolet S-Series/GMC Truck Sonoma extended cabs.
  • Projections call for 30 percent of Chevrolet full-size extended models to have the panel in the first year, with the potential to reach 70 percent of total production when fully accelerated, while GMC Truck plans to install the panel in up to 50 percent of Sierra extended cab production.
  • The system has been designed with comfort and convenience in mind, with a focus on meeting the specific needs of different buyers, including those with disabilities.
  • Chevrolet segment manager Ed Schoener emphasized the importance of the system, stating that buyers of full-size trucks are more interested in carrying people instead of cargo inside the rear of the extended cab, while buyers of compact pickups have voiced a greater desire for carrying cargo.

Statistics:

  • Over 49 million Americans have some form of disability which may restrict their ability to drive, making the Easy Access System a significant innovation in the truck industry.
  • 95 percent of extended cab owners expressed an interest in owning the panel, with the potential for the system to be extremely popular with buyers.
  • Projections call for 30 percent of Chevrolet full-size extended models to have the panel in the first year, with the potential to reach 70 percent of total production when fully accelerated.
  • GMC Truck plans to install the panel in up to 50 percent of Sierra extended cab production.

Sources:

  • PR Newswire, May 17, 1995
  • Chevrolet Motor Division
  • GMC Truck
  • General Motors Corporation
  • Ed Schoener, Chevrolet Full-size Pickup segment manager
  • Linda Bellaire, Engineering Project Manager