Today Chevrolet brought its tried and true Silverado into the next era of automotive history, by introducing the 2024 Silverado EV. The all-electric Silverado EV is a total reimagining of Chevrolet’s best-selling model.
Initially, the Silverado EV will be available in two configurations. The RST First Edition will include four-wheel steering, automatic adaptive air suspension, and the Mult-Flex Midgate. The utility-focused Work Truck (WT) configuration will be available to fleet customers.
Ultium Power Platform
The Silverado will be powered by the new Ultium Platform, which features a 24-module battery pack as part of the structure.
“The Ultium Platform enabled our design and engineering teams to start from a clean slate and create a pickup with impressive performance and capability,” said Nichole Kraatz, Silverado EV chief engineer. “The result is a truly impressive testament to the creativity and innovation our teams can bring to market with speed and at scale.”
Front and rear motors send power to the available 24-inch wheels on the RST to power the e4WD system.
Specs & features
The unique design structure contributes to an estimated range of 400 miles for both the WT and RST configurations. The RST also features Wide Open Watts (WOW) Mode that produces 664 horsepower and 780 foot-pounds of torque. GM estimates the Wide Open Watts Mode will allow the RST to achieve a 0-60 miles per hour time of less than 4.5 seconds. The RST is also work-ready with 10,000 pounds of trailering and a 1,300-pound max payload.
The fleet-focused WT offers 510 hp, 615 lb-ft of torque, 8,000 pounds of towing, and 1,200 pounds of payload. A WT model outfitted with the max tow package will be available after the initial launch, and it will boast a 20,000-pound max trailering.
Both configurations will include four-wheel steering capability, reducing their low-speed turning radius and increasing overall maneuverability. The Automatic Adaptive Air Suspension can raise or lower the Silverado EV by two inches along with the four-wheel steering.
As with many available and upcoming EVs the Silverado provides ample storage compartments that take advantage of unique opportunities afforded by the lack of a combustion motor. The eTrunk is a lockable, weatherproof front storage compartment. It’s large enough to fit large duffels or hard case luggage with easy access for loading and unloading.
The RST also features the innovative Multi-Flex Midgate, which provides nine feet of storage between the cab and the tailgate when open. Opening the Midgate adds over three feet of available storage to the 5-foot-11-inch bed. An available tonneau cover is capable of hauling cargo on top while also providing lockable and waterproof storage underneath.
The interior of the Silverado has received just as many updates as the exterior, and not all of them are technology-based. The RST model includes a fixed-glass roof that offers incredible visibility. The center console features over 7-gallons of storage.
Tech
The Silverado EV will be capable of DC fast charging that’s capable of adding 100 miles of range in only 10 minutes based on GM’s estimates.
However, impressive range and fast charging isn’t the only ways that the Silverado EV takes advantage of the Ultium Platform. With the optional accessory power bar, the truck can provide a total of 10.2 kW via ten outlets so customers can utilize it at work or play to power all of their accessories and tools. With the right equipment, the Silverado EV can even power a home or another EV in emergency situations.
By utilizing the Energy Assist feature in the myChevrolet App, drivers can create energy-efficient routes and easily find one of the 100,000 public charging points in the United States and Canada.
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The interior of the RST includes a 17-inch- diagonal LCD infotainment screen that is paired with a neighboring 11-inch diagonal driver instrument display. These screens, along with a 14-inch head-up display, provide the driver with a wide array of customizable information.
The most impressive technology included in the Silverado EV may just be the Super Cruise function. This is an industry-first hands-free driver-assistance program that is trailer-capable. Super Cruise will allow drivers to travel hands-free on over 200,000 miles of compatible roads across the United States and Canada.
Pricing & availability
In spring 2023, the WT model will be available for fleet use, and then in fall 2023, the RST First Edition will be available for $105,000 plus fees. As 2024 approaches, Chevrolet will begin to offer the full line of Silverado EVs with prices ranging from $39,900 for a WT model to models priced at $50,000 and up. Their goal is to offer a Silverado that meets the capability and price needs of a wide range of customers.
Overlanding the Silverado EV
With a 400-mile range on a single charge, the Silverado EV could be a major contender for electric-powered backcountry adventures. While many of the specifications related to trail capability aren’t currently available, it appears as if this truck could handle forest roads and dispersed camping easily. The ability to power several electric accessories is an added bonus. Specifically, the $39,900 WT model has overland potential. It comes equipped with all of the cargo room and most of the features of the pricier RST, and the steel wheels certainly back its utility-driven design. Chevrolet mentioned the future release of a Silverado EV Trail Boss, and if it stays true to the current package with that name, we expect it to feature a number of off-road-focused features.
