Chevrolet Silverado EV 2024 road test: a massive and powerful centerpiece

– The Silverado EV RST 2024 is distinguished by its autonomy and its power, with more than 750 horsepower.

– Its huge size and characteristics make it a versatile truck, even if it is not quite ready for heavy work.

– The quality of construction could be improved, but it is full of technology and comfort for those who want more than a simple beast of sum.

Although the media threshing around electric vehicles has been a little calmed down lately, it is undeniable that they occupy and occupy an important place in the automotive landscape. GM was one of the first to fully adopt the VE and the new Silverado EV, although it is a few years behind the Ford Lightning, is the result of this vast investment. It also shows that certain aspects have been botched, even if it is only slightly.

If there is a Silverado EV in your neighborhood, you have probably noticed it. This is certainly my case. In just six days, I spotted more than twenty in the Montreal region, most of them in the high -end RST Black version, which is well suited to the imposing look of the van. The Silverado EV and its competitors such as the Ford Lightning and the Rivian R1T are GM’s response to the growing demand for electric trucks. Trucks of this type are essential for car manufacturers, because they report a lot of money, and we understand why GM has invested as much in this model.

This vehicle is huge. With almost 6 meters long and a wheelbase of 3.7 meters, it makes every day SUVs for compact cars. His presence was felt by all, especially when I parked it next to a Honda Civic or a Toyota Rav4. It’s like driving a “monster truck” to the streets of the city.

Power and autonomy

Now let’s talk about what the Silverado EV does best: power and autonomy. The RST First Edition that I tested develops 754 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque thanks to its configuration at two engines. These are supercar figures in a truck that weighs nearly 8,700 pounds. This weight is not a joke, and it is almost shocking to see how heavy this truck is compared to rivals like the Ford Lightning, which weighs approximately 2,000 pounds less. But even with all this weight, the Silverado EV goes from 0 to 100 km/h in less than five seconds. It’s fast, but it’s a bit misleading. The mass of the vehicle reduces the feeling of speed, so that even if you move quickly, you don’t always have the impression.

Regarding autonomy, the Silverado EV shines. The basic model starts with a laudable 632 km autonomy. This is the best in its category, and if you need a truck capable of keeping the distance, it is for you. The loading is also impressive, since its architecture allows a fast load of 350 kW – up to 160 km of autonomy in just 10 minutes on the good charger. By switching to the RST version, we get a 205 kWh battery and an estimated autonomy at 724 km. In ideal conditions, as was the case during my week with the Silverado EV, I have no doubt that this figure is realistic.

The interior of the Silverado EV: comfort in the service of practicality

Upon entering the Silverado EV, you are greeted by an interior that holds both the truck and the luxury car. My RST First Edition model had a multitude of equipment: heated and cooling seats, heating steering wheel and solid panoramic roof, among other accessories.

The 17.7 -inch touch screen is another strong point. It is large, bright and slightly curved towards the driver, which allows it to be easily used without leaving the road your eyes for too long. The system is fluid and intuitive, with integrated Google for those relying on voice commands and navigation. Please note: no Apple Carplay !!! And this, for the 2024 and 2025 model years. The person who made this decision should be dismissed immediately.

One of the most interesting features is the midgate, which allows the length of the bed to be extended over 10 feet by folding part of the back wall of the passenger compartment. It’s perfect for transporting long objects like furniture. There is also the multi-flex tailgate, which provides access to the bed in several ways, as well as a large front (or “e-trunk”) chest that offers additional storage space.

This is where things are spoiling. Certain basic elements are absent for a truck sold from $ 75,000, such as heated seats on the lower versions. It’s a bit difficult to swallow, especially for such a expensive vehicle sold in Canada.

Heavy, but manageable

Driving the Silverado EV is an experience. It is large and heavy, but thanks to characteristics like the four -wheeled wheels, it is surprisingly easy to maneuver. Pneumatic suspension does its job and driving is comfortable overall. However, the weight of the truck is felt and it is difficult to ignore its enormity, especially in restricted spaces. The input and exit ramps must be borrowed with ease, because the huge Michelin LT275/50R24 tires are slightly crisp, even if they are used slightly. There is no associated traction loss, it’s just that the vehicle is damn heavy.

Although it is powerful and capable, I would not yet call it a work truck. Yes, it can tow more than 10,000 pounds and transport 1,800, but it looks more like an exhibition part than a robust carrier every day. The quality of construction could be better: some strange plastic clicks and garnish problems give the impression that quality control has been a little rushed, which I also noticed in the Blazer EV.

Overall, the Chevrolet Silverado EV 2024 is an impressive engineering piece. It is large, daring and endowed with a power and features which allow it to consolidate its position on the market in full expansion of electric trucks. However, it presents defects, in particular in terms of construction quality. Those who are ready to pay $ 120,000 will have for their money, but they will also have to compromise.