Photographers recently captured images of GM employees testing the next-generation 2017 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 3500 HD dually in Detroit.

With the news officially dropping last week that GM will update the look of the 2016 Silverado and Sierra 1500 models, it is expected that the heavy-duty pickups will also be updated shortly after the official release of the new 1500s later this year. The updates are said to include revised exterior styling similar to the updates on the 2016 1500s (new grille, hood shape, etc.) and the addition of LED running lights.

MORE 2017 GMC, CHEVY 3500 HD PICTURES

But the bigger changes some expect could occur under the hood, as the 3500s are expected to received the 6.2-liter gas V8 engine used on the 1500 models as well as an updated Duramax turbo-diesel engine to compete with the fuel efficiency and improved power of competitors. It is also expected that the eight-speed transmission, which will be expanded on the 1500 offerings as well in 2015, will be the main transmission used by Chevy and GMC on its HD models.

This next generation of GMC and Chevy HD pickups are expected to run until about 2020, and it is rumored that the following generation may adopt more aluminum construction in an effort to reduce weight and improve fuel consumption.  We should see the official unveiling of the 2017 Silverado and Sierra HD later this year or early in 2016.