The year is 2024 and yet another new electric vehicle has hit the market – the Chevy Blazer EV. It seems as though every automaker is jumping on the electric bandwagon, with GM being no exception. However, unlike the cheaper Chevy Bolt, which debuted eight years ago, GM’s recent EVs haven’t quite had the same success.
The pressure is on for GM to deliver a successful electric ride, especially with Americans’ love for SUVs. The upcoming Chevy Equinox EV, GMC Sierra pickup, and Cadillac Escalade IQ are all expected in 2024, adding even more weight to the success of the Blazer EV.
GM’s Chair and CEO, Mary Barra, has high hopes for the Blazer EV, as it is built on the Ultium platform – the new electric architecture and accompanying Ultifi software that was first revealed in 2020, and is the foundation of the automaker’s entire EV plan. Recently, TechCrunch got behind the wheel of the Blazer EV in San Diego to see if it lives up to the hype.
The Chevy Blazer EV hits a lot of the right notes, from the exterior design and interior touches to the user interface on its infotainment system and a well-planted drive. There are no egregious missteps either, although some might put getting rid of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into that camp.
Overall, the Blazer EV does impress at first glance. It maintains a sleek and sporty exterior, standing out from the crowd with its unique features and curves. The interior is just as impressive, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo, as well as a user-friendly infotainment system. However, there are a couple of misses that may leave some potential buyers feeling disappointed.
One major concern is the price tag. While the front-wheel drive LT trim is said to be priced under $50,000, the other trims – starting at $56,715 and going up to $61,790 – may be too steep for what the Blazer EV offers. This factor alone could make it a tough sell for those in the market for an affordable EV.
Nuts and Bolts
Let’s dive into the specifics of the Blazer EV. It comes in three different trims – the luxury LT, sporty RS, and high-performance SS. The AWD RS model is already in production at GM’s factory in Mexico, with the LT AWD and RD starting production in the coming weeks. Customers also have the choice between two different battery pack sizes and various drive options.
While this may seem like a plethora of choices for buyers, it could also be overwhelming. Chevy has touted this as a competitive advantage, but it’s possible that they are just trying to cover all their bases and avoid missing out on what consumers want. As more data becomes available, we may see the available options become more limited in the future.
The press drive in San Diego allowed reporters to test two different versions of the Blazer EV – the RWD RS and AWD RS trims. The RWD model boasts a 102 kWh battery pack with an EPA certified range of 324 miles, and a powertrain that delivers 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The AWD option includes a rear motor that only kicks in when needed for slippery roads or quick acceleration.
Like, Love, and Loathe
The Blazer EV certainly has a lot to offer, and there’s plenty to like and even love about it. The exterior design is sleek and eye-catching, without being over-the-top like some novelty EVs on the market. The spacious interior also provides ample room for passengers and cargo.
The edgy-without-being-silly vibe continues into the cabin — a place where the vehicle really shines, with a few exceptions. Chevrolet makes the most of the Blazer EV’s wide stance, a decision that leaves the driver and its passengers with plenty of room; including 59.8 cubic feet of rear cargo space.
However, there are a couple of things to loathe about the Blazer EV. The operation of the stock to shift into neutral, drive and reverse is awkward, and the “sport” mode doesn’t add much to the driving experience. The lack of controlled or active suspension means there isn’t much change in the ride feel when switching between modes. And while the large touchscreen infotainment system is impressive, the decision to get rid of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto may turn some buyers away.
All in all, the Chevy Blazer EV shows a lot of potential as a mainstream electric vehicle. However, with a higher-than-expected price tag, it may not be accessible enough for many buyers. Only time will tell if GM’s efforts will pay off in the competitive EV market.
