Is this the world's safest tow vehicle?

One of the biggest dramas when towing a large caravan is being able to see what’s happening behind you. Even with big towing mirrors fitted, getting a clear rearward view of traffic when trying to change lanes, pull over or overtake on busy roads is fraught with danger.

However, American car brand GMC (part of General Motors, which sells Holdens down under) has come up with a nifty, high tech solution that will be available on its new 2020-model Sierra Heavy Duty pick-up truck.

The Sierra’s latest ProGrade Trailering system will offer as many as 15 camera views, including a segment-first transparent trailer view that will allow drivers to “virtually see through a trailer in tow”, according to GMC.

The see-through display is generated from images obtained from a tailgate-mounted camera and an optional camera mounted on the rear of the trailer, and will be a handy aid for navigating car parks, merging into traffic or making tight turns with a long van behind.

The new Sierra will be loaded with other smart trailer technology, including remote monitoring of various trailer information via a smart phone app or the dash-mounted 15in display. There will also be an option available that will allow drivers to turn on the caravan’s air conditioning or water heater, or monitor water tank levels, before arriving at their destination.

Other features fitted to the new GMC truck and designed to deliver a “world-class towing experience” include larger new door-mounted powered towing mirrors, an integrated trailer brake controller, trailer sway control, auto grade braking, diesel exhaust braking, and a tow/haul mode.

The 2020 Sierra pick-up will be powered by a 332kW/1213Nm, 6.6-litre turbo-diesel V8 engine matched to a new 10-speed Allison auto transmission – another segment first according to GMC.

Although GMC hasn’t released final specs, the new Sierrra is expected to have a towing capacity as high as 13 tonnes, depending on configuration.

Plus, to more easily access your camping gear in the rear tub, the Sierra will also feature a new “world-first” MultiPro six-function tailgate, that includes a built-in, fold-out step.

“Trailering is the most important consideration for Sierra Heavy Duty customers, and the new features and technologies in the 2020 Sierra HD make it easier than ever to hitch a trailer and tow it confidently,” GMC Heavy Duty Trucks vehicle chief engineer, Jaclyn McQuaid, said,

“We’ve developed this new truck to offer the greatest trailering experience ever offered by GMC.”

The new Sierra goes on sale in the US later this year. The current-model GMC Sierra is presently only available in Australia through specialist importers and right-hand drive converters.