The GM subsidiary Chevrolet has unveiled the Blazer EV. Based on parent company General Motors’ Ultium platform, the all-electric SUV will be available with a choice of front, rear or all-wheel drive.
From its drive versatility and range of up to 320 miles (515 kilometres), Chevrolet promises a “seamless EV experience that fits virtually any lifestyle”. The Blazer EV, which will be launched as a 2024 model year, can be charged via AC at 11.5 kW and via DC at up to 190 kW.
With a length of just under five metres, the Blazer is one of Chevrolet’s more compact SUV models. Therefore, the GM brand emphasises the model’s sporty characteristics. The power is up to 410 kW (in the performance version SS) and the torque up to 878 Nm. In the so-called ‘WOW’ mode (for “Wide Open Watts”), the sprint from a standstill to 60 mph (96 km/h) is said to be possible in less than four seconds.
Even though the Blazer EV on the Ultium platform is a new and distinct model, the design is said to be derived from the internal combustion engine version of the Blazer introduced in 2018.
The Chevy Blazer EV comes in 1LT, 2LT and RS variants, as well as the SS performance version. A special variant for police fleets is also planned. Initially, the 2LT and RS versions will go on sale in summer 2023 with prices starting at $47,595 and $51,995 respectively. The 2LT is a front-wheel drive model, all-wheel drive is optional here. GM quotes a range of 293 miles (471 kilometres). The RS is the model with the longest range, with the aforementioned 320 miles; front-, rear- and all-wheel drive are available here.
The SS will follow later in 2023 with prices starting at $65,995, followed by the entry-level 1LT starting at $44,995 and the police variant in the first quarter of 2024. Reservations for the Blazer EV are already open in the US.
The Blazer EV will roll off the production line at GM’s Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico. GM is reportedly looking at a return to Europe with electric-only cars, probably initially with the Cadillac Lyriq and electric Hummer.
“The 2024 Blazer EV sets a new tone for electric SUVs, with options and intuitive technologies that help position Chevy for leadership in one of the fastest-growing EV segments,” said Scott Bell, Chevrolet vice president. “Along with the all-new Silverado EV and Equinox EV coming next year, we are making great strides in offering more choices for zero tailpipe-emissions vehicles — choices that make switching to an EV easier than ever.”
Keyword: Chevrolet presents the serial version of the Blazer EV