As the proud owner of a 2008 GMC Sierra, and a keen observer of the electric vehicle EV industry’s evolution, I have been excitedly awaiting the opportunity to swap out my trusty gas-guzzler for a cutting-edge electric truck. It was with a hopeful heart and an eye towards sustainability that I had pinned my hopes on the Chevrolet Silverado EV. But the latest news has left me feeling rather disheartened. It seems Chevrolet has decided to axe the much-anticipated $40k Chevrolet Silverado EV variant1. The reasons are varied and complex, and although I can understand them, I can’t deny the disappointment.
The initial price of the Silverado EV, set at $39,900, seemed within reach for many potential buyers, me included. It was an opportunity for electric mobility to be attainable for the common man, an encouraging move in the era of climate change. However, economic challenges and supply constraints have led to a rise in the base price2. A considerable surge, might I add, as the entry-level Work Truck variant is now starting in the $50,000 range2.
The Silverado EV was an impressive prospect, with GM’s Ultium platform powering a dual-motor setup that delivers 510 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. These power figures made the Silverado EV a compelling option, even outperforming its direct rival, the Ford F-150 Lightning Pro. With an estimated range of 400 miles and towing capacity up to 10,000 pounds, it was supposed to be a workhorse just like my old Sierra, but with the added benefit of zero emissions.
One must also consider that the Silverado EV was designed with commercial fleet buyers in mind. Fleet operators are more likely to absorb the price increase, whereas individual customers may find it harder to justify the new entry-level price13. It seems Chevrolet’s focus on fleet services, contractors, and small businesses has come at the expense of individual customers like me who were eager to embrace electric mobility.
However, I can’t help but appreciate the commendable strides Chevrolet has made in EV technology. The company’s commitment to the transition to electric is evident in the Silverado EV’s specs and performance. The Silverado EV shows improvements in aerodynamics, battery development, and even knowledge gained on one-pedal driving and regenerative braking3.
Nevertheless, as I sit behind the wheel of my aging GMC Sierra, I can’t help but feel the dream of owning an electric pickup, one that is both powerful and affordable, has been delayed, not denied. I remain hopeful that Chevrolet, with its expertise and commitment to the EV transition, will eventually deliver an electric truck that can live up to the performance and affordability expectations of prospective owners like me.
With a heavy heart, I reckon we must accept that the transition to EVs won’t be as smooth or as affordable as we’d hoped. It’s a setback, yes, but this won’t dissuade me from the path to a sustainable future. I’ll remain hopeful and continue to watch the EV space with interest, trusting that Chevrolet will eventually deliver an electric pickup for the everyday truck lover.
Sources:
- GM Authority. (2023, June). 40k Chevy Silverado EV work truck variant not happening. GM Authority. Retrieved June 27, 2023, from https://gmauthority.com/blog/2023/06/40k-chevy-silverado-ev-work-truck-variant-not-happening/
- Chevrolet. (n.d.). All-electric Silverado. Chevrolet. Retrieved June 27, 2023, from https://www.chevrolet.com/electric/silverado-ev/
- Autoblog. (2023, June 26). 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV first drive review. Autoblog. Retrieved June 27, 2023, from https://www.autoblog.com/2023/06/26/2024-chevrolet-silverado-ev-first-drive-review/