GM Scrambles to Match Demand for Fullsize Pickups

General Motors Co. is struggling with component shortages in an effort to satisfy demand for its redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra large pickup trucks, according to Bloomberg News.

Unnamed sources tell the news service that the main problem is finding enough components to produce the popular 5.3-liter, 355-hp EcoTec3 V-8 engine option for the trucks.

The sources are divided about whether the supply issue can be resolved quickly. But GM insists the shortage is temporary and relatively minor.

The 5.3-liter engine has an estimated U.S. highway fuel economy rating of 23 mpg, which GM touts as superior to any other V-8 pickup engine including rival Ford Motor Co.'s EcoBoost V-6 powerplant.

Silverado/Sierra buyers have the option of specifying the standard 4.3-liter V-6 rated at 285 hp or waiting for the delayed arrival of a 6.2-liter V-8 that makes 420 hp. All three engines operate in a fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode under light load conditions.