Photo credit: arstechnica.com

Chevrolet Silverado EV: Evaluating Its Practicality in a Changing Landscape

The Chevrolet Silverado EV has drawn attention for its innovative design and electric capabilities. However, at lower speeds, its substantial size can present challenges for drivers. Particularly for the larger RST version, which includes rear-wheel steering, maneuvering through tight spaces can still be tricky. This feature enables the rear wheels to turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels, effectively reducing the truck’s 145.7-inch (3,700 mm) wheelbase, making it somewhat more manageable in urban settings or when parking.

While owning a garage isn’t a strict necessity for Silverado EV owners, having a reliable home or work charging station is vital for a practical electric vehicle experience. Using a standard 120 V (level 1) AC outlet may suffice for daily commutes under 40 miles, providing enough power for overnight charging. However, it’s important to note that fully recharging a depleted battery could take over a day with this method.

Charging options vary, with Level 2 AC charging expected to accomplish a full battery refill within 8 to 10 hours. Chevrolet claims that this charging method enables drivers to gain around 10 miles (16 km) of range with just 10 minutes of charging time. The Silverado EV’s powertrain operates on a 400 V system but can adapt to DC fast chargers, allowing for an 800 V charge at a rate of up to 300 kW. This technology facilitates a recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 45 minutes. During testing, the battery was only depleted to about 50%, limiting the evaluation of the most efficient charging rates.

As climate change contributes to fluctuating temperatures, the Silverado EV’s efficiency can also vary. While driving in colder conditions, the average consumption was recorded at 1.7 miles per kWh (36.6 kWh/100 km), improving to 2.2 miles per kWh (28.2 kWh/100 km) in milder weather.

Market Timing and Consumer Perception

There’s an ongoing debate regarding whether Chevrolet was prudent in developing the Silverado EV. The project seemed well-timed amidst the peak of electric vehicle enthusiasm, with expectations that pickup truck enthusiasts would transition smoothly to electric alternatives. However, the reality has proven more complex, as many consumers currently exhibit hesitance towards electric pickups.

Nonetheless, Chevrolet stands strong with a diverse lineup of electric vehicles that cater to a range of consumers, which may afford the automaker some flexibility in adapting its battery platform for various models. The future will ultimately determine whether the Silverado EV, amidst competitive electric truck offerings, can carve out its niche in the market.

Source
arstechnica.com