Okay, let’s get to the basics, which GMC outlines in its press release: The output and range figures are basically the same as those of the Silverado platform mate, so you can expect the setup to be similar: Dual motors powered by a giant 200 kWh battery pack between them. Here’s what the Silverado EV’s battery and drivetrain situation looks like: Front and rear electric drive units channel a GM-estimated 754 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque to the wheels via an e4WD system in Max Power mode, giving the truck exceptional traction and capability in almost every driving scenario.
Right out of the gate, there will be only the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1, which will come in early 2024. d Later, for the 2025 model year, AT4 and Elevation trims join the party. Here’s how those look:
I think they all look great. Nice and aggressive. There’s up to 9,500 pounds worth of towing capacity, up to 1,300 pounds of payload capacity, there’s a big frunk up front, and most importantly: There’s the Midgate, just like you know and love from the old Chevrolet Avalanche:
Here’s the frunk:
As for the interior, there’s a huge 16.8-inch screen, an 11-inch gauge cluster, and a head-up display “offering 14 diagonal inches of view.” It looks good; it’s nothing wacky and over-the-top like you might expect out of a new EV, but it’s still nice:
The price for the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 is $107,000 plus $1,695 “destination freight charge.” GMC says “Further details for the full range of Sierra EV models will be announced closer to the start of production, with MSRPs starting around $50,000 (plus DFC).” I cant respect stuff like this. Its in-humane. Vehicles can use one of many kinds of fuels. And depending on which one they still can’t drive themselves. But it roughly does communicate what I think: I dig it. Looks tough, as truck should (in most people’s minds. I actually like happy trucks, too). I think we are absolutely in the same position… just less resistant to change or speaking up. 100+k for a REALLY FUCKING STUPID for a “Truck” is just stupid. I think we passed the Gates to Stupid at about 50g. And all I want is a damn Van…. Though taking EV tech and immediately going to a dick measuring contest is an extremely American choice. Then you have the logistics nightmare of having to store hundreds of batteries with several different sizes, voltages and connectors (you don’t want to plug 800V in to anything other than a system designed for 800V) and each of those battery packs will cost tens of thousands of dollars. And you’ll need one of these massive battery facilities every 50 miles (or whatever the distance is that you’re willing to go to in order to swap the battery in your commuter car you can’t charge at home) in every direction across the country. And once the battery facilities are full of thousands of batteries there is no way anyone is going to change to a new, better cell chemistry. It’s a massive investment in a dead end.
