The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV is set to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market for General Motors. While Chevy already has some electric vehicles like the Bolt and Silverado EV, the Equinox EV aims to win over the mass market with its affordability and wider appeal. Slated to be available later this year, let’s dive into what makes this new model so exciting.
At present, the gasoline-powered Chevy Equinox is the brand’s second-best-selling model, trailing only the Silverado pickup. The introduction of an electric version brings green energy to a vehicle type that many people already love. Although it shares a name with the gasoline model, the Equinox EV is a completely new design, built upon GM’s Ultium modular battery structure. This innovative platform allows for more balanced proportions compared to its gas counterpart.
The dimensions were influenced by the battery pack positioned between the wheels, resulting in a 9-inch stretch in the wheelbase. This should ideally offer more passenger room, though Chevy hasn’t released specific measurements yet. Visually, the EV version appears sleeker than the somewhat bulky gasoline model, with a design dubbed “Americana Cool” by Chevy’s designer Sam Bell. The new look also includes aerodynamic elements like seamless door handles.
The Equinox EV is approximately 7 inches longer, 1 inch lower, and 3 inches wider than its gasoline equivalent. In car design, these dimensions often mean better aesthetics and performance. Despite these changes, it still keeps the traditional SUV appearance, which might make it more appealing compared to other unique designs like the Volkswagen ID.4 or Hyundai Ioniq 5.
Chevy will offer various trims including the 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 2RS, and 3RS, with the RS trims having sportier features. There will be two-tone exterior options, featuring a black roof for RS models and a retro white roof for LT models. Standard wheel size is 19 inches, but you can opt for 20-inch or 21-inch wheels if you prefer.
Inside, the Equinox EV boasts larger screens than its gasoline counterpart. The base model comes with an 11.0-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster, while higher trims feature a massive 17.7-inch touchscreen. Optional features include a head-up display and a rearview camera mirror. However, don’t expect CarPlay or Android Auto support, as GM has decided to drop these platforms.
Unlike the gasoline version, the Equinox EV offers GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system, although it’s not standard. Super Cruise can handle steering, acceleration, and braking on specific pre-mapped highways and includes driver monitoring to prevent misuse. Other driver aids come standard, like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist, with options for adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera.
The Equinox EV comes standard with front-wheel drive and a single motor that produces 210 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque. If you need more power, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive option boosts output to 290 hp and 346 lb-ft of torque, making both options more powerful than the gasoline version.
Chevy has decided on one battery pack option for the Equinox EV, which offers a range of up to 319 miles, depending on the model. All-wheel-drive trims have a slightly reduced range of 285 miles. The car supports DC fast charging at up to 150 kilowatts, allowing it to add 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes at a compatible charger.
Cargo space is an important factor for SUVs, and the Equinox EV offers up to 57.0 cubic feet with the rear seats down. While that’s less than the gasoline Equinox and the similar-sized VW ID.4 EV, it matches the capacity of the smaller Chevy Bolt EV. The Equinox EV also features a dual-level cargo floor to optimize space usage.
Chevy has revealed the pricing for the Equinox EV, starting at $34,995 for the base 1LT model. After applying the full $7,500 federal tax credit, the price drops to $27,495, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market. Prices go up with higher trims, but not all models will qualify for the federal tax credit.
Overall, the Chevrolet Equinox EV is poised to be a strong contender in the electric vehicle space, thanks to its affordability and competitive range.