Electrifying Ride: The 2024 Chevy Silverado EV RST First Edition Hits the Civilian Market

Evaluation: The civilian model of the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV RST is finally here

Chevy's all-electric 2024 Silverado EV, initially rolled out for commercial fleets as a Work Truck variant around a year back, is now available for everyday consumers to purchase.

We had the opportunity to test drive the premier edition of the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV RST First Edition for several hours around the predominantly level areas near Detroit. During our experience, we covered nearly 100 miles in a black model priced just under $100,000.

Representatives from Chevrolet chose not to reveal details about the models that rank below the RST in their range. The RST boasts a variety of upgrades not found on the standard Work Truck, such as an adjustable air suspension system, steering for the rear wheels, an expansive glass roof spanning the length of the cabin, 24-inch aluminum rims, an available Super Cruise system for hands-free driving, and a selection of different driving modes.

The Silverado EV's battery life and performance

One of the key attractions for the Silverado EV series is its ability to travel up to 450 miles on a single charge according to EPA estimates, with a battery around 205-kwh in size (the initial top-tier RST model is projected to reach 440 miles). This surpasses the distance capabilities of all other electric pickups available, offering peace of mind to those willing to invest in one that they won't be caught off guard by a drained battery.

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

On our journey, we traversed both the country lanes of Michigan and the swift-moving traffic of the Interstate, hitting speeds of up to 80 mph. Across a distance of over 100 miles encompassing varied traffic conditions, we observed energy consumption levels ranging from 2.0 to 2.2 miles per kilowatt-hour. These figures align closely with those recorded by Green Car Reports during their extensive week-long evaluation of a Ford F-150 Lightning. This indicates that the Silverado EV, which boasts a longer projected range and tips the scales at over 8,000 pounds, could potentially surpass its local competitor in terms of energy efficiency.

Two-way charging for residential emergency use is also in the pipeline.

Chevy states that the carrying capacity is 1,500 pounds. The Silverado EV we evaluated has a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds, and for our towing tests, Chevy supplied us with an electric powerboat on a trailer and a trailer with a car enclosed.

The company did not provide any data on the reduction in efficiency caused by towing. However, the integrated Google navigation system compensates for towing by recalculating the vehicle's range and modifying the required charging intervals. Additionally, Super Cruise is compatible with towing scenarios.

Upcoming 2024 Chevy Silverado Electric

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

The revamped Chevy Avalanche takes on an electric form

Chevrolet's inaugural electric Silverado pickup bears minimal resemblance to its fossil fuel-driven counterparts, aside from its moniker. Its stance is more aerodynamic and closer to the ground compared to its internal combustion engine (ICE) siblings, and it's built from the ground up, discounting the common elements it shares with the upcoming GMC Hummer EV, Cadillac Escalade IQ, and other vehicles. The vehicle features a more compact front design with narrow LED headlights and a filler panel that hints at a traditional grille, accompanied by a four-door cabin and a cargo bed that's seamlessly merged with the main cabin structure.

The Silverado EV is essentially the modern, electrified version of the Chevrolet Avalanche from 2002-2013, which was one of the first four-door sports trucks featuring a seamless pickup bed design. The design cues like the sail panels that link the roof and bed sides, and the midgate that can be opened and folded down to expand the bed floor, are reminiscent of the Avalanche. This allows for items to be loaded directly behind the front seats all the way to the tailgate. However, Chevy officials seem to dismiss any hints that their new electric truck might be dubbed the "EValanche"…it seems that idea didn't catch on.

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Model of Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

The disadvantage of the new Avalanche-inspired model is that the electric versions of the Silverado Work Trucks aren't compatible with the customized add-ons – like tool boxes and tailored bed caps – that the gasoline models accommodate. This sets the Silverado Electric Vehicle apart from its competitor, the Ford F-150 Lightning, which promotes this feature as an advantage.

The interior of the cabin combines plush materials in areas commonly touched, alongside a fine-dot textured rigid plastic on the dashboard and other large areas. The high-end models we tested featured distinctive stitching and seat covers that signified they were the exclusive "First Edition" variants.

The Silverado EV's capabilities on the road: Swift despite its size

When driving, the Silverado EV manages to maintain pace with other vehicles when in its standard driving setting. Giving the accelerator a firm push delivers a burst of speed, enabling this sizable and hefty pickup to weave through openings, surpass other cars effortlessly, and navigate traffic at whatever speed you desire.

The RST First Edition model, equipped with 24-inch rims, demonstrates impressive handling around bends, aided by its air suspension system which maintains a level stance. The positioning of the battery pack beneath the floor of the cabin contributes to a reduced tilt in comparison to traditional, combustion engine-powered, full-size pickups during turns. However, alert drivers will notice the substantial mass that the 24-inch wheels are managing. The addition of rear-wheel steering endows the vehicle with unexpected nimbleness, enabling it to execute a U-turn within a 42-foot radius, which is practically feasible on a two-lane roadway with ample shoulder space.

2024 Model of the Chevrolet Silverado Electric

Chevrolet declined to provide any standard power or torque figures. The only numbers issued were a maximum of 754 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque, which can be accessed when the driver engages the Wide Open Watts (WOW) mode. This mode is similar to the "Watts To Freedom" (WTF) feature in the GMC Hummer EV, a vehicle that has many foundational similarities with the electric Silverado.

We put the WOW mode through its paces with several stationary acceleration tests, and the advertised sprint time from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds appears to be quite accurate. The emergency braai-allcreator.com">king capability was also noteworthy; the anti-lock braking system managed to halt the hefty 8,500-pound truck in a marginally lesser distance than anticipated. Our experience with the Silverado EV RST First Edition was that it offered a serene and smooth ride on various terrains. However, as is common with most electric vehicles, the lack of noise and vibrations from the powertrain tended to amplify the sounds of the wind and the road.

The Silverado EV offers a tranquil and spacious ride. As you step into the vehicle using the stationary side steps, you'll notice the expansive center console, which has become a staple for full-size trucks, as well as the broad instrument display and central touchscreen. The front seats offer comfort with extensive adjustability, and the sizeable side mirrors ensure a substantial range of vision behind the vehicle. The rearview mirror provides both standard and camera-based perspectives, and lowering the headrest of the middle back seat enhances the line of sight for the mirror.

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Model of Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

The back section of the vehicle boasts a level floor, offering ample space for three adults of average American build to sit in the back without feeling cramped. Visibility towards the back and the sides of the rear is quite clear, but raising the driver's seat to its maximum height provides the optimal vantage point to look over the somewhat tall and steep front hood. The construction standards of our RST First Edition review model seemed top-notch.

The front compartment provides a secure storage space of 10.7 cubic feet. A fixed exhibit showcased the Silverado EV's maximum cargo space length (a stretch of 10 feet and 10 inches with the midgate unfolded and the Multi-Flex tailgate lowered, while the load barrier was raised) in comparison to its electric truck rivals: Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Rivian R1T. As expected, the Chevrolet came out on top.

Chevy's 2024 Electric Silverado

2024 Model of Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

2024 Chevy Silverado Electric Vehicle

General Motors and Google dominate the Silverado EV's dashboard interface

Similar to Chevrolet's recent electric releases such as the Chevy Blazer EV and Chevy Equinox EV, the latest Silverado EV also skips the usual integration of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for connecting smartphones.

GM employees highlighted that a leading electric vehicle manufacturer, subtly referring to but not explicitly naming Tesla, has consistently omitted those capabilities from its cars.

Currently, Google Assistant offers a feature for Google Maps that works in sync with the truck's battery level, directing the truck to quick charging points when the journey is beyond its considerable distance capacity. It also informs drivers about the duration of the charging needed and the expected battery level upon arrival at their subsequent location. Essentially, this mirrors the functionality Tesla has provided for over a decade.

Consumers should diligently verify if the apps they prefer are sanctioned by Google and General Motors for installation via the car's Play Store. The only additional navigation software observed was Waze, and it doesn't synchronize with the car's power source. Regarding electric vehicle charging spots, Plugshare was accessible, however, A Better Routeplanner and Chargeway were not.

Individuals are required to log into the built-in applications via the car to access their features. Representatives from General Motors were clearly uncertain about the ownership of the information regarding users' application activity, travel routes, destinations, music selections, and other related data. General Motors has expressed anticipation of considerable income from the digital offerings of its vehicles. However, the Silverado EV will come with complimentary navigation services for 8 years, and possibly even longer. The General Motors spokespersons could not provide clarity on whether this complimentary service would continue after the stipulated time or the potential expenses after the trial period concludes.

Chevrolet covered the costs of flights, accommodation, and food for Green Car Reports, allowing them to deliver a firsthand account of the driving experience.

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