As the push to create greener cars continues, even the truck market is being affected. GM unveiled their newest entry into the green market, the hybrid 2008 Denali concept. The new vehicle debuted at the Chicago Auto Show to generally good reviews. It’s sleek exterior lines and unique top line garnered the most attention, but its what’s under the hood that GM cares most about.

GM is taking a gamble that truck buyers have been waiting for a hybrid alternative and they expect to release this new model sometime this year. Next up on the hybridization slate are the GMC Yukon and the Chevy Tahoe, but these plans may depend on how well received the Denali is. One thing that will definitely be in the Denali’s favor is its increased fuel efficiency, which is estimated at around 50% better than other small pickups in its class.

Although truck buyers generally go towards diesel when they want better fuel economy, it will remain to be seen if they embrace this new concept truck. The company also has high hopes for the 2009 Sierra hybrid which maintains its performance stats while getting 25% better gas mileage. The Sierra is expected to be available later this year, while other models will be debuting to the public around mid-year.

According to the company, the Sierra will be able to get 30 mpg just in electric mode, while it is still efficient in gas mode, thanks the V6 engine. The hybrid looses a little when it comes to towing however, with its maximum towing capacity weighing in at 4,000 pounds less than the standard gas driven Sierra. This may effect its overall popularity with truck buyers who expect to be able to haul trailers and other heavy equipment.

Mark LeNeve, the GM vice president of sales, service and marketing in North America, stated that the company only expects about 5% of their current truck buyers to make the switch. That’s not a very hopeful figure, but it is estimated that car buyers may be willing to trade up for a little more powerful hybrid. As automakers are forced to switch to more efficient engines, thanks to new government standards, the popularity of these trucks may continue to rise.

The new Denali will have some tough competition from Toyota’s A-BAT which was announced earlier this year. Toyota’s entry is also on a unibody frame, much like the Denali and measured up with a four foot bed, coming in just a little smaller. Although a lot of ink has been expended on the new truck hybrids, the real test will be in demand. LeNeve states that GM is prepared to ramp up their production figures if consumers show enough demand. However, the company does not appear to be placing much hope for killer sales on these models for their first year.

Considering the selection from the top automakers, consumers certainly will have a lot of choices at hand if they do decide to make the switch to the greener alternatives.