Chevrolet Equinox EV: Mainstream Electric SUV for Under $35,000
Hot on the heels of the award-winning Blazer EV, Chevrolet is extending its all-electric SUV lineup with the new 2024 Equinox EV. Like the Blazer, it is a mainstream, high-volume model that’s designed to make it easier for families to make the switch to electric. Originally announced in late 2022, the Equinox EV finally goes on sale this year, with a starting MSRP of $34,995.
Equinox EV Trim Levels
At that price, the Equinox EV is the most affordable electric SUV in its class – even if the starting MSRP is about $5,000 more than originally anticipated in 2022. There’s a lot riding on its shoulders, as the gasoline-powered Equinox, which is the second-best selling model in the Chevrolet lineup. But at least on paper, the Equinox EV’s specs are strong – it seems to offer great value for money, good range, and an easy transition to an electrified lifestyle.
The entry-level Equinox, dubbed 1LT, comes with front-wheel drive, and a 210-hp electric motor that produces 242 lb-ft of torque. EPA estimated range is a strong 319 miles – about 40 more than originally anticipated. Electric all-wheel drive is an option, and incorporates a dual motor to up horsepower to 290 and torque to 346 lb-ft. All-wheel drive Equinox models have yet to receive an EPA range estimate, though we expect them to land around 300 miles.
In addition to the 1LT trim level, there are more luxurious 2LT and 3LT models, for which pricing has yet to be announced. A 2RS model features sporty interior and exterior accents. Pricing is as follows:
· Equinox EV 1LT front-wheel drive: starting MSRP of $34,995
· Equinox EV 2LT front-wheel drive: starting MSRP of $43,295
· Equinox EV 2RS front-wheel drive: starting MSRP of $44,795
· Equinox EV 3LT front-wheel drive: starting MSRP of $45,295
· Equinox EV 3RS front-wheel drive: starting MSRP of $46,795
All-wheel drive prices have yet to be announced.
Chevrolet Equinox EV: Technology
All Equinox EV models are built on the dedicated Ultium platform, which General Motors developed specifically for electric vehicles. Because of that, it hasn’t been designed around a large gasoline engine, so it has a long wheelbase that makes the cabin exceptionally spacious and flexible.
The Ultium platform also brings rapid charging. The standard on-board AC charging capability is 11.5 kW – better than most EVs on the market, and adding about 34 miles of range per hour. On all-wheel drive models, 19.2-kW on-board charging is also available, allowing drivers to add up to 51 miles of range per hour on a Level 2 charger – which is as fast as some older DC fast chargers. Level 3 fast charging happens at up to 150 kW, which is not class-leading, but allows the addition of up to 70 miles of range in 10 minutes.
The electric Equinox will feature one-pedal driving as its default, which extends the vehicle’s range. When the driver releases the accelerator pedal, regenerative braking slows the vehicle down, while converting the kinetic energy into electricity that charges the battery. Like a Tesla, one-pedal driving will gradually bring the Equinox EV to a full stop without having to use the brake pedal. A more conventional two-pedal driving mode is also available.
Modern, Expressive Design
The Equinox EV’s stance is a consequence of its large, flat battery pack and spacious interior. It is wide and, for an SUV, quite sporty, accented by animated LED lights ant the front and rear which “wake up” as you approach the vehicle. Standard wheels are 19-inch, and offer the best range and ride comfort, while 20- and 21-inch wheels are available. LT models are available with a cool white contrast roof, while sporty RS models have a blak roof.
Inside, we really like the clean and modern design of the cabin, which has plenty of room for five. The ambient lighting is adjustable, and the infotainment screen, with standard smartphone connectivity, is available in sizes of up to 17.7 inches. Numerous storage compartments make it easy to keep the interior tidy, while the cargo area has a whopping 57 cubic feet of space. Luxurious touches include heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and even heated windshield wipers – all of which improve cold-weather performance, safety, and range.
Chevrolet Equinox EV Availability
Chevrolet says that the order books for the Equinox EV will open shortly for most models, with the base 1LT available to order later in 2024. While the starting MSRP of $34,995 is higher than we were anticipating, the fact that the Equinox EV is made in North America makes it eligible for federal tax credits, helping reduce the financial burden. (Remember: dealers can now apply the tax credit directly at the time of purchase.)
With the demise of the popular Chevrolet Bolt, the new Equinox is set to take up its mantle as one of the best-value electric vehicles on the market. It will certainly be the most affordable EV with over 300 miles of EPA-estimated range. We’re looking forward to driving it when it hits our roads soon.
