General Motors offers numerous variations of the Chevrolet Silverado, to the point where not all models are actually manufactured. The Silverado 4500 HD, 5500 HD, and 6500 HD are medium-duty Class 6 commercial trucks sharing a platform and production line with the International CV Series. This unique partnership is approaching its conclusion.
Per TFL Truck, the production of the Silverado MD models is set to cease on September 30, 2026. Transport Topics reveals that GM chose not to extend its agreement with International, originally established in 2015 (when the latter was still referred to as Navistar), which facilitated joint development and manufacturing of the CV and Silverado MD trucks. International is also ending production of the CV Series on September 10 and has sold the Springfield, Ohio, facility, where these trucks are made, to Canadian defense contractor Roshel as of March 30, 2026.
What prompted GM to opt-out of renewal? It may largely be tied to a decline in sales within the medium-duty category. As TFL Truck points out, Chevy only recorded sales of 1,273 units during the first quarter of this year, a decrease of 37.4% compared to the first quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, Ford reported sales of 2,331 F-650 and F-750 trucks in the same period of 2026. Additionally, International’s MV Series is offered in a comparable Class 6 format as the CV Series, presenting some competition.
Introduced at the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis in 2018, the Silverado MD is powered by a Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that generates 350 horsepower and 750 pound-feet of torque, paired with an Allison six-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive is optional, and buyers could select between regular cab and crew cab setups, with wheelbase lengths from 165 inches to 243 inches. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) ranges from 14,001 to 16,500 pounds for the 4500 HD, 17,500 to 19,500 pounds for the 5500 HD, and 21,000 to 23,500 pounds for the 6500 HD.
According to Transport Topics, the majority of the Ohio plant’s capacity was allocated to the Chevy-branded trucks, which elucidates International’s rationale for its sale. The company has been manufacturing trucks and buses at that site since 1961. The factory withstood the reductions tied to International Harvester’s restructuring in 1982 (when the Fort Wayne, Indiana, facility was closed), and now finds a new lease of life under Roshel. The Canadian firm acquired both the assembly facility and a co-located specialty truck center, comprising two million total square feet on 500 acres.
GM still has one co-venture commercial truck in its lineup. It plans to keep selling the Isuzu-derived LCF (Low Cab Forward) series in Class 4, 5, and 6 for the 2027 model year. However, the largest U.S. automaker has exited the mega chassis cab market where Ford continues to compete.
**Chevrolet Set to Cease Medium-Duty Silverado Produced by International Truck**
In a crucial shift within the commercial vehicle market, Chevrolet has revealed it will discontinue its Medium-Duty Silverado series, which has been produced in partnership with International Truck. This decision signifies the closure of a chapter for a model that has catered to numerous industries since its launch.
**Overview of the Medium-Duty Silverado**
The Medium-Duty Silverado was crafted to meet the demands of businesses needing sturdy and adaptable trucks for activities like towing, hauling, and other heavy-duty functions. Introduced in 2018, the truck was a part of Chevrolet’s initiative to broaden its commercial vehicle lineup, filling a gap between light-duty pickups and more robust heavy-duty trucks.
Constructed by International Truck, a division of Navistar, the Medium-Duty Silverado was based on a platform that supported various configurations, encompassing different cab styles, chassis lengths, and engine options. This adaptability rendered it attractive across multiple sectors, including construction, delivery, and municipal services.
**Causes for Discontinuation**
The choice to end the Medium-Duty Silverado can be linked to several variables:
1. **Market Trends**: The commercial vehicle sector has undergone notable alterations in recent years, showcasing an increasing preference for lighter, more fuel-efficient options. A considerable number of businesses are leaning towards alternatives that boast superior fuel economy and reduced operational costs.
2. **Sales Metrics**: In spite of its features, the Medium-Duty Silverado faced challenges in securing a significant portion of the market. Rivals in the medium-duty field, such as Ford and Ram, have sustained strong sales figures, complicating Chevrolet’s efforts to gain a foothold.
3. **Strategic Direction**: Chevrolet is realigning its priorities towards its principal offerings and is investing in electric vehicle (EV) innovations. The company aims to strengthen its range with more sustainable alternatives, which likely influenced the decision to phase out certain models that do not harmonize with this objective.
**Consequences for Customers and Dealers**
The halting of the Medium-Duty Silverado will undoubtedly affect existing customers and dealerships. Current owners of the vehicle will need to evaluate their options for subsequent purchases, while dealers will have to modify their inventory and sales approach. Chevrolet has confirmed its commitment to supporting existing Medium-Duty Silverado customers with parts and servicing.
**Future Outlook for Chevrolet’s Commercial Vehicles**
Despite the cessation of the Medium-Duty Silverado, Chevrolet remains dedicated to its commercial vehicle segment. The brand still provides a robust array of light-duty and heavy-duty trucks, encompassing the sought-after Silverado 1500 and Silverado HD models. Furthermore, Chevrolet is investing in the development of electric commercial vehicles, which may result in new offerings forthcoming.
In summary, the discontinuation of the Medium-Duty Silverado manufactured by International Truck mirrors broader trends within the automotive sector and Chevrolet’s strategic transition toward innovation and sustainability. While it signifies the conclusion of a particular model, it paves the way for new prospects and advancements in Chevrolet’s commercial vehicle lineup.