Electric vehicles (EVs) are finally becoming more mainstream and affordable, especially with models like the new Volvo EX30 and the Chevy Bolt, although the latter is set to be discontinued. However, many people are still hesitant to buy an electric car due to concerns about battery longevity and the anxiety around charging.
To help alleviate these concerns, GM has introduced a new program called EV Live. This program provides a convenient way for potential customers to learn more about electric vehicles without having to visit a dealership. Essentially, EV Live allows you to speak with EV experts and get an up-close look at the vehicles via a Zoom-like call, where only the representative’s camera is active.
You can access EV Live by visiting its website and either joining a tour immediately or scheduling a one-on-one or group tour for a future date. During these sessions, a GM representative will guide you through the features of GM’s electric vehicles, the platforms that power them, and the charging technology available to keep them running. Participants can ask any questions they might have, such as the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 charging. The representative will walk to the relevant section of the room to provide a visual explanation. This service is completely free and very user-friendly.
The set-up for EV Live is quite impressive. GM representatives move around a large, well-lit room equipped with a phone on a mobile gimbal, explaining EVs to interested customers. The environment resembles a high-end showroom or an auto show.
The main goal of this initiative is, of course, to boost sales of GM’s electric vehicles. However, there’s less pressure compared to a dealership setting since you can’t just click “Add to cart” and purchase a $35,000 car online. Instead, EV Live serves as an educational tool to help buyers make informed decisions. GM believes that investing in EV Live will eventually lead to more sales, whether immediately or in the future.
It’s worth noting that GM has had some challenges in the electric car market recently. The Chevy Bolt EV, despite being one of the most affordable electric cars with a good range, will be discontinued due to multiple recalls. Additionally, GM has announced a switch from the CCS charging standard to Tesla’s NACS plug, which might confuse some customers who will need adapters for non-Tesla charging stations. While you can buy a Bolt today at a dealership, other models like the Silverado, Equinox, and Blazer EVs are still months away from being available. Meanwhile, competitors like Ford, Tesla, and Volvo offer attractive alternatives that are worth considering.
What sets EV Live apart is its educational approach. No other company has launched a similar effort to educate potential buyers about EVs. While people can search online for answers, speaking with a real person can be much more helpful, especially for those who aren’t as comfortable using the internet. Imagine trying to explain electric car charging to your curious grandmother; with EV Live, you might not have to.