Chevy’s Electric Milestone: The 2024 Silverado EV RST Hits the Roads for Everyday Drivers

Critique: The 2024 Chevy Silverado Electric RST is finally available to the public

After initially being released to commercial fleets in its Work Truck variant almost a year earlier, the all-electric 2024 Chevy Silverado full-sized pickup is now accessible for personal ownership.

The initial consumer model hitting the market is the premium 2024 Chevy Silverado EV RST First Edition. We got the opportunity to take it for a spin for several hours, cruising through the predominantly level areas surrounding Detroit, clocking in nearly 100 miles on a black unit priced just below $100,000.

Spokespeople for Chevrolet refrained from giving details on the models that will rank below the RST in their range. The RST, however, comes equipped with a variety of enhancements not found on the standard Work Truck version. These upgrades include an adjustable air suspension system, steering for the rear wheels, an expansive glass roof that spans the length of the cabin, large 24-inch alloy rims, the choice of Super Cruise control for hands-free driving, and a selection of different driving modes.

The Silverado EV's distance capabilities and energy use are a standout feature, with the vehicles boasting up to a 450-mile range on a full charge according to EPA estimates, thanks to their approximately 205-kwh battery size (with the RST First Edition estimated at 440 miles). This surpasses all other electric trucks currently available, offering peace of mind to buyers with the means to purchase one that they won't be left stranded without power.

2024 Model of the Electric Chevy Silverado

We navigated through country lanes in Michigan as well as high-speed highway sections with speeds reaching 80 mph. During our 100-mile journey through varied traffic conditions, we recorded an energy efficiency of between 2.0 to 2.2 miles per kilowatt-hour. This performance is comparable to the results Green Car Reports obtained during their seven-day evaluation of the Ford F-150 Lightning. These findings imply that the Silverado EV, which boasts a longer estimated range and tips the scales at over four tons, could potentially outperform its local competitor in terms of efficiency.

The capability for vehicles to charge in both directions, serving as a power source for homes, is also in development.

Chevy has stated that the payload capacity is 1,500 pounds. The Silverado EV model that we evaluated has a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds, and for our towing tests, Chevy supplied an electric powerboat on a trailer as well as a trailer with a car enclosed within it.

No specific data was provided regarding the reduction in efficiency due to towing; however, the integrated Google navigation system considers the presence of a towed load and modifies the estimated range and necessary charging intervals as needed. Additionally, Super Cruise is compatible with towing operations.

2024 model of the Chevy Silverado,

The 2024 electric version of the Chevrolet

The revamped, electric version of the Chevy Avalanche

Chevrolet's inaugural electric Silverado pickup truck bears minimal resemblance to its traditional gas and diesel counterparts, with a more streamlined and lower profile that's been designed from the ground up. However, it does have some commonalities with the GMC Hummer EV, the soon-to-be-released Cadillac Escalade IQ, among others. It features a more compact front design with narrow LED headlights and a panel that hints at a grille, alongside a four-door cabin and a cargo bed that's fused with the main cabin.

The Silverado EV truly represents the electrified version of the Chevrolet Avalanche from 2002-2013, a pioneering four-door sport truck featuring an integrated bed. The design includes comparable sail panels linking the roof and the bed sides, as well as a midgate that can be opened and folded to lengthen the bed floor, enabling the transportation of goods from behind the front seats to the tailgate. Despite this, Chevy officials regularly react with skepticism to any ideas of dubbing their fresh electric truck "EValanche"…such a pity.

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Model of the Chevy Silverado Electric

The disadvantage of the new Avalanche-inspired design is that the electric Silverado Work Trucks are incompatible with the custom add-ons like toolboxes and bespoke bed covers that their gasoline counterparts accommodate. This sets the Silverado electric model apart from its competitor, the Ford F-150 Lightning, which markets this feature as an advantage.

The interior of the cabin features a blend of plush materials in areas you're prone to touch, paired with a fine-dot textured rigid plastic on the dashboard and other large areas. The high-tier models we tested came with distinctive stitching and seat covers, signifying their status as the special "First Edition" variants.

The Silverado EV's capabilities on the road are sufficient for maintaining pace with other vehicles when in its standard driving setting. When you step on the gas, the pickup's powerful acceleration allows it to easily merge into tight spaces, pass other cars effortlessly, and navigate through traffic at whatever speed you desire, despite its substantial size and weight.

The RST First Edition's 24-inch rims contribute to its impressive handling capabilities, allowing it to navigate turns smoothly thanks to its air suspension system that maintains stability. The strategically placed low-lying battery pack also plays a crucial role in reducing the vehicle's tendency to tilt during turns, outperforming its traditional combustion engine-powered counterparts in this aspect. However, drivers will notice that the tires are managing a significant amount of weight. The addition of rear-wheel steering enhances the truck's maneuverability, providing a surprisingly tight 42-foot turning radius that nearly enables a full U-turn on a moderately wide two-lane road.

2024 Model of Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

Chevrolet declined to provide figures for standard power or torque levels. The only figures given indicated that the vehicle can reach a maximum of 754 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque in a special mode called Wide Open Watts (WOW) that the driver can activate. This mode is similar to the GMC Hummer EV's "Watts To Freedom" (WTF) feature, and the electric Silverado is built on a similar platform.

Our trials with WOW mode included a few stationary acceleration tests, and the advertised sprint time from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds appears to be quite accurate. The vehicle's emergency braking capability was also remarkable, with the anti-lock braking system halting the 8,500-pound truck in a marginally lesser distance than anticipated. The Silverado EV RST First Edition we evaluated delivered a serene and sleek driving experience on various pavements. However, as is common with electric vehicles, any noise from the road or wind tends to stand out due to the lack of traditional engine sound and vibration.

The Silverado EV offers a seamless and silent ride with plenty of space. As we stepped into the vehicle using the stationary side steps, we immediately noticed the broad console separating the front seats, a standard feature in large trucks, along with a sizable instrument display and central screen. The front seats provide comfort with extensive adjustability, while the expansive door mirrors give a broad perspective of what's behind. The rearview mirror has the option to switch between traditional reflection and a video display, with the added functionality of the middle rear seat's headrest folding down to enhance visibility for the mirror.

2024 Model of Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Model of Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Model of the Chevy Silverado Electric

The back section of the cabin features a level floor, providing ample room for three adults of US proportions to sit in the back without discomfort. Visibility towards the back and sides is clear, but raising the driver's seat to its maximum height offers the optimal view over the front of the vehicle, which is quite tall and flat. The construction quality of our RST First Edition test vehicle seemed top-notch.

The Silverado EV provides a secure storage space in the front trunk, measuring at 10.7 cubic feet. In a side-by-side demonstration, the Silverado EV's cargo area length was showcased—reaching a maximum of 10 feet 10 inches when the midgate is open and the Multi-Flex tailgate is lowered with the load restraint in place. This was compared to the cargo capacities of its rivals in the electric pickup segment: Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Rivian R1T. Predictably, the Chevrolet model came out on top.

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Model of the Chevy Silverado Electric

General Motors and Google assume command of the Silverado EV's dashboard interface. Similar to Chevrolet's recent electric models, such as the Chevy Blazer EV and Chevy Equinox EV, the Silverado EV bypasses the conventional Android Auto and Apple CarPlay features for connecting smartphones.

Personnel at General Motors subtly referenced a leading electric vehicle manufacturer, notably avoiding the use of the name Tesla, while highlighting that this competitor has consistently lacked certain features in their cars.

Currently, Google Assistant offers a navigation feature for Google Maps that works in sync with the truck's battery level. This system guides drivers to quick-charging stations when their journey extends beyond the truck's considerable battery range. It also informs them about the duration of the charging period needed and the expected battery level upon reaching their subsequent destination. Essentially, this mirrors the service Tesla has been providing for over a decade.

Consumers should exercise due diligence in verifying if the apps they prefer are sanctioned by Google and GM for installation via the car's Play Store. The only additional navigation application observed was Waze, which does not synchronize with the vehicle's battery system. Regarding EV charging station information, Plugshare was available, however, other popular options like A Better Routeplanner and Chargeway were absent.

Vehicle passengers are required to log into built-in applications directly via the car to access their features. Representatives from General Motors could not clarify the ownership of the collected data, which includes information on app use, travel routes, destinations, music preferences, and more. General Motors has projected a considerable income stream from the digital offerings of its vehicles. However, the navigation system in the Silverado EV will not incur any charges for the first 8 years, with the potential for an extended period of free service. The GM officials could not provide details on whether the complimentary service would continue after the initial period or the potential costs once the free period concludes.

Green Car Reports was able to deliver this firsthand drive report thanks to Chevrolet, who covered the costs of flights, accommodations, and food.

Labels:

Participate:

Functionality:

Readers of this article typically check out:

Spread the Word About This Piece:

Get in Touch with the Author:

Stay Updated by Following Us:

Subscribe to the Green Car Reports Daily Newsletter

Register for daily updates on eco-friendly vehicles and environmental reports straight to your email!

I consent to getting emails from Green Car Reports. I'm aware that I have the option to opt-out whenever I choose. Privacy Policy.

We test out the electric Chevy Equinox. Jeep unveils its inaugural EV in the US. Tesla's charging network could face competition. GM explores innovative cooling for charging stations. SUVs are contributing to higher CO2 emissions. Catch all these stories at Green Car Reports. Jeep introduced its first all-electric model for the American market on Thursday evening. The 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S EV is comparable in size to the Grand Cherokee but offers more interior space. It promises over 300 miles on a single charge, according to the manufacturer, and a special Launch Edition will hit the market this autumn with a starting price of $71,995, destination charges included. A top official from GM hinted that…

The car manufacturer ceased production of the Bolt EV when 2023 came to a close. However, they have recently stated that the model will make a comeback, with manufacturing set to commence in Kansas towards the end of 2025.

Phase change material (PCM) technology has long been employed in thermal management solutions for electronics and is now gaining popularity in equipment designed for outdoor activities.

For the first time in developed nations, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) accounted for more than half of car sales, with approximately 20 million units sold, as reported by the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Jeep initiates its all-electric voyage by introducing the Wagoneer S, positioned as an alternative to the Grand Cherokee.

This includes eligibility for the electric vehicle tax credit, with a base model starting at $34,995 still expected to be available "later this year."

Following Tesla's halt on Supercharger expansion, various networks are strategizing to increase their number of charging points and are looking to recruit Tesla staff who have been let go.

Volkswagen joins the push for cost-effective electric vehicles. Meanwhile, Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda pledge to develop a fresh lineup of engines. Also, Cadillac unveils its budget-friendly electric vehicle. Stay tuned for more at Green Car Reports. The anticipated 2025 Cadillac Optiq EV is set to launch this year, and our team at Green Car Reports had the opportunity for an exclusive preview…

This beginner's electric vehicle from Cadillac is aimed at attracting a youthful audience through its stylish appearance and comfortable features, along with the addition of all-wheel drive and an approximate driving distance of 300 miles on a single charge

The strategy includes utilizing more compact engines in hybrid vehicles, a move that could impact the design of Subaru's upcoming Crosstrek Hybrid.

The car manufacturer has launched an initiative to produce a vehicle priced below $35,000 specifically for the North American market, with an expected release around the year 2027.

Is it practical for fleets of commercial electric vehicles to charge wirelessly? Has Volkswagen found a solution for the previous flickering screens and unreliable controls in the ID.4 with a recall fix? Additionally, does the extra cost for the Mustang Mach-E GT justify its features? We discuss all these topics and more here on Green Car Reports. The 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT has been upgraded to offer faster…

Associated Content

Top Choices

Image Gallery

Updates

Press

Feeds

Organization

Stay Connected: