General Motors is making a serious play in the electric vehicle arena, and the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV feels like a cornerstone of that strategy. It's not just another EV; it's an electric version of Chevy's absolute bestseller, the full-size Silverado pickup. This isn't just about electrifying a popular model; it's about redefining what a full-size electric truck can be.
What immediately strikes you about the Silverado EV is its distinct styling. It moves away from the rugged, familiar look of its gasoline-powered counterpart, opting for a sleeker, more futuristic aesthetic. This is a departure from how some competitors, like the Ford F-150 Lightning, have approached their electric truck designs. Built on GM's innovative Ultium platform, the Silverado EV promises a spacious interior, impressive utility, and robust performance thanks to its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system.
For 2024, the focus is on the First Edition RST trim, a well-equipped model that starts around $97,000. This version comes with the extended-range battery and AWD, positioning it as a premium offering right out of the gate. Chevrolet provided a test vehicle decked out in this trim, complete with a few thoughtful accessories like an E-Trunk mat and cargo net, bringing the total to just under $97,000. It’s a significant investment, but one that reflects the advanced technology and capabilities packed into this new truck.
Stepping inside the Silverado EV is like entering a different era of truck interiors. There's no traditional start button; the truck simply comes to life as you enter with the key fob. The dashboard is dominated by a striking 11-inch digital gauge cluster that seems to flow seamlessly into a massive 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen. While Chevy has wisely included a physical volume knob and separate climate controls, the digital interface is where most of your interaction will happen.
Currently, all Silverado EVs are configured as four-door crew cabs, and the interior space is genuinely generous. Beyond the comfortable seating for five adults, there's an abundance of storage solutions. A deep bin under the center armrest, easily accessible cupholders, and a handy wireless charging pad at the front of the console keep your essentials organized and charged. Even a shelf in front of the passenger seat offers a convenient spot for smaller items.
The front seats are a highlight – stylish, supportive, and clad in synthetic leather. They offer power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, making long drives a pleasure. The interior is further enhanced by thoughtful design touches, like the red and blue stitching and piping that add a vibrant contrast to the overall cabin aesthetic.
Rear-seat passengers are treated to an impressive amount of legroom, reportedly more than you'd find in a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. This, combined with the panoramic sunroof, creates an airy and open atmosphere. Heated outboard seats in the rear are a welcome touch for colder climates.
For those who prioritize cargo over passengers, the rear seats fold away to create more space. And then there's the innovative Multi-Flex Midgate, a feature that allows the truck bed to extend into the cabin, offering remarkable versatility for hauling longer items.
When it comes to infotainment, the Silverado EV adopts a Google Built-in system as standard. This includes a large 17.7-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a seven-speaker Bose sound system, and integrated Google Maps and Google Assistant. The wireless phone charger is also a convenient addition.
While the Google-based system is feature-rich and offers excellent voice control through Google Assistant – I found it remarkably adept at finding local taco joints, for instance – it's a notable omission that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not supported. This is a significant departure for Chevrolet, and while the Google system can replicate much of the functionality, it's a point of disappointment for many users accustomed to those familiar interfaces.
However, the integration of Google Maps is a strong point. If you have a Google account, you can sign in to access saved locations and destinations directly within the truck's navigation. The Google Play Store also allows for downloading additional apps like Spotify and Waze, personalizing the experience further. Navigating the system itself is intuitive, with large icons and a clear display. Climate controls remain accessible at the bottom of the screen, with redundant physical buttons below for quick adjustments.
The natural language interface of Google Assistant is a real standout. Asking it to find specific types of restaurants or destinations feels remarkably conversational and effective. It’s a glimpse into a more integrated and intuitive future for in-car technology, even if the absence of traditional phone mirroring is a hurdle for some.
