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In the past, carbon fiber was primarily utilized in high-performance supercars, particularly in Formula 1 racing and the aerospace sector during the early 1980s. Fast forward to today, and you can easily order a 2019 GMC Sierra Denali equipped with a carbon fiber truck bed—offering weights that are 62 pounds lighter and significantly stronger than traditional steel alternatives.
At first glance, this appears to be a straightforward option. Carbon fiber is known for its strength, which makes it an appealing choice for a pickup truck bed that endures heavy wear and tear. However, the reality is more complex, and there’s a valid reason why this technology hasn’t been widely adopted until now. To explore this further, GMC invited me to Continental Structural Plastics (CSP) in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where I observed the transformation of carbon fiber composite sheets into ready-to-use truck beds. My visit provided important insights for anyone considering one of these durable options.
Is it Truly Carbon Fiber?
Indeed, each CarbonPro begins as a 100 percent carbon fiber composite—the same kind of material utilized in Lamborghini’s supercars, such as the Huracan Performante and Aventador SVJ. It is important to note, however, that various components of the truck bed also incorporate glass fiber, aluminum, and steel, as depicted in the accompanying diagram.
How Durable Is It?
While carbon fiber sheets may not immediately suggest “strength,” GMC asserts that the CarbonPro truck bed is currently the most resistant to corrosion, dents, and scratches on the market. Because the performance of carbon fiber can vary based on its weave pattern and thickness, GMC has performed thousands of tests, including those for compression, flex, impact, fatigue, galvanic corrosion, and chemical resistance in different environments.
What does this mean in practical terms? It means that GMC has subjected the truck bed to significant stress, such as dropping cinder blocks from a Bobcat, sustaining heat from a running generator, and bending metal baseball bats—all proven through video evidence.
Where Is CarbonPro Manufactured?
If you’re keen on supporting American-made products, you’ll be pleased to know that CarbonPro is produced at CSP’s facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This location is in close proximity to General Motors’ Fort Wayne Assembly Plant, where GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado half-ton trucks are assembled. CSP also manufactures lightweight composites for vehicles such as the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford F-150 Raptor.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Evaluating the pros and cons of a brand-new market entry can be challenging. GMC states that customers are seeking leading-edge technologies, and the new MultiPro tailgate and CarbonPro bed are key responses to that demand.
Pros: Enhanced strength, superior durability, best-in-class cargo volume (an increase of 1.81 cubic meters over steel beds), 14 fixed tie-down hooks (the highest count for short boxes), and improved fuel efficiency due to reduced weight.
Cons: Performance is unproven, production is limited (most CarbonPro trucks are likely to require special orders), and it’s expected to come with a high price tag.
What Is the Cost of CarbonPro?
Details regarding the pricing of CarbonPro and other important information remain undisclosed; however, it is certain that it will not come at a low cost. Based on estimates, early buyers might expect to pay between $3,500 and $5,000 for the added benefits and prestige associated with CarbonPro.
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