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2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV: An Affordable Electric SUV for the Masses

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV: An Affordable Electric SUV for the Masses 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV: An Affordable Electric SUV for the Masses

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV marks a significant step for General Motors in the electric vehicle market. While not Chevy’s first EV, it aims to be the most impactful, focusing on mass-market appeal with an affordable price point. Following the Bolt and Silverado EV, the Equinox EV targets a wider audience, capitalizing on the popularity of the gasoline-powered Equinox, Chevy’s second-best-selling model after the Silverado pickup truck.

Front three quarter view of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV.Front three quarter view of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV.2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV exterior front three-quarter view showcasing its modern design.

Sleek Design and Enhanced Proportions

Built on GM’s Ultium platform, the Equinox EV boasts a fresh design distinct from its gasoline counterpart. The Ultium architecture enables improved proportions, contributing to a sleeker, more refined appearance. The battery pack, positioned between the wheels, necessitated a 9.0-inch wheelbase extension compared to the gasoline model. This not only enhances passenger space but also contributes to the EV’s streamlined aesthetics. Chevy designer Sam Bell describes the design language as “Americana Cool,” incorporating aerodynamic elements like flush door handles.

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The Equinox EV is approximately 7 inches longer, 1 inch lower, and 3 inches wider than the gasoline version, adhering to the “longer, lower, wider” principle often associated with appealing automotive design. While maintaining its SUV identity, the styling offers a more conventional appeal compared to models like the Volkswagen ID.4 or Hyundai Ioniq 5. Chevy offers various trim levels: 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 2RS, and 3RS. The RS trims feature sportier styling, while two-tone exteriors, including black roofs for RS models and white roofs for LT models, add further customization options. Standard 19-inch wheels are complemented by available 20-inch and 21-inch options.

Interior of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV.Interior of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV.2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV interior showcasing its modern dashboard and infotainment system.

Advanced Tech and Driver-Assist Features

The Equinox EV features upgraded screens compared to the gasoline model. An 11.0-inch touchscreen and an 11.0-inch digital instrument cluster come standard, while higher trims boast a 17.7-inch touchscreen. Optional features include a head-up display and a rearview camera mirror. With GM’s announced discontinuation of CarPlay and Android Auto support, their inclusion in the Equinox EV remains uncertain.

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A key technological highlight is the availability of GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driver-assist system. While not standard, Super Cruise offers advanced capabilities compared to competitors, enabling steering, acceleration, and braking on premapped highways. The system actively monitors the driver to prevent misuse. Standard driver-assistance features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system are available as options.

Closeup of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EVCloseup of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EVClose-up view of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV’s front fascia, highlighting its charging port and LED headlights.

Performance and Range

The base Equinox EV features front-wheel drive and a single motor delivering 210 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque. An optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain increases output to 290 hp and 346 lb-ft, exceeding the gasoline Equinox’s performance. A single battery pack option is available, offering up to 319 miles of range in front-wheel-drive models and 285 miles in all-wheel-drive versions. DC fast charging at up to 150 kW allows for adding 70 miles of range in 10 minutes at compatible chargers.

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Cargo space measures 57.0 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, less than the gasoline Equinox and the VW ID.4. A dual-level cargo floor helps maximize available space.

Rear three quarter view of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV.Rear three quarter view of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV.Rear three-quarter view of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV, showcasing its taillight design and overall profile.

Pricing and Availability

The Equinox EV’s starting price is $34,995 for the 1LT model, qualifying for the full $7,500 federal tax credit, effectively lowering the price to $27,495. Higher trim levels have varying prices and tax credit eligibility:

  • 2LT: $43,295 (or $35,795 with the tax credit)
  • 2RS: $44,795
  • 3LT: $45,295
  • 3RS: $46,795

With its competitive pricing and reasonable range, the Chevrolet Equinox EV is poised to be a significant contender in the electric SUV segment.

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