Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle II (CUCV II)

Following the completion of deliveries of the first Chevrolet Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle (CUCV) trucks in 1987, the military division of General Motors (GM Defense) introduced a new version of the same trucks, designated CUCV II. According to Jane's Information Group, the CUCV II trucks were available in six configurations, with gas or diesel engines:

• Type A Utility based on the K10516 Yukon and generally similar to the CUCV M1009
• Type B Truck Cargo based on the K30903 Pick-up and generally similar to the CUCV M1008, designated the M1008A1 (see below).
• Type C Truck Ambulance based on the K30903 Chassis/cab and generally similar to the CUCV M1010
• Type E Shelter carrier based on the K30903 Pickup and intended for demountable shelters
• Type F Communications Shelter carrier based on the K30903 Pickup
• Type S Command Car (Suburban) based on the K20906 light truck and intended as a four-door personnel carrier

The CUCV II was procured by Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Ecuador, Britain, Venezuela as well as by the U.S. military in limited quantities. Although the U.S. contract was with U.S. Army TACOM, the procurement was primarily for the U.S. Air Force. These trucks were designated M1008A1 Type B, Truck, Cargo, Tactical, 5/4 Ton, 4x4.

CUCV II production consisted of taking standard one ton GM trucks to a separate facility where the required militarization was performed. Exterior changes included CARC paint (Forest Green, Desert Sand, or 3-color Camouflage), blackout lights, military bumpers, brush guard, NATO slave receptacle, NATO trailer receptacle, pintle hook and shackles. Heavier springs were installed to increase the load rating to 1 1/4 ton and the electrical system was changed to the 24/12 volt military standard. The dashboard had additional controls and dataplates. The truck also could be equipped with weapon supports in the cab, cargo tie down hooks, folding troop seats, pioneer tools, winch, and other military accessories.

Production of the CUCV II vehicles was finished by 2000. GM Defense superseded the CUCV II with the Light Service Support Vehicle (LSSV).

Note: Table of specifications is based on the M1008A1 CUCV II Type B Cargo/Troop Carrier, NSN 2320-01-123-2671. For more information: CUCV II Data Sheet

Manuals for the M1008A1 Chevrolet CUCV II trucks will be numbered TM9-2320-289-xx where the xx represents the maintenance level. You can purchase the Chevrolet CUCV manuals at ABE Books.

Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle (CUCV II). Photo: GM Defense.

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