Affordable Chevy Equinox EV Garners Attention, Outshining Tesla's Legacy in Mileage and Historical Significance: Swift Overview Analysis
Taking a Peek at the Chevy Equinox EV: An Affordable Electric Option
Electric vehicles (EVs) are all the rage these days, and Tesla might be the first name that comes to mind. But let's not forget about General Motors, the brainchild behind the groundbreaking EV1 in 1996 and the Chevy Volt in 2010. Now, we have the Equinox EV, an entry-level EV with a staggering starting price below $30,000.
The Sub-$30k EV
The Equinox EV stands on the shoulders of its predecessors, offering advanced features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a navigation system, all without the hefty price tag of a Tesla. In fact, some Chevy dealers in LA are selling the Equinox EV LT for an MSRP under $35,000. After deducting the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, you're looking at a sub-$28,000 EV (before taxes and fees). And this isn't a stripped-down model; it boasts superior features compared to the Chevy Bolt LT of years past.
Giving it a Spin
I've been cruising around in the Equinox EV for a week, and let me tell you, it's a stunner. The loaded All-Wheel-Drive RS version with Super Cruise, GM's Advanced Driver Assist System, takes the tedium out of driving on highways. While it may not have the AI smarts of Tesla's Full Self Driving, it handles acceleration, braking, and steering with deft precision. It effortlessly changes lanes and passes slower cars, making your commute as hassle-free as possible.
Pricing Competition
The Equinox doesn't quite beat Tesla on price, but it comes close. For around $44,000, you can grab an AWD Tesla Model Y and deduct the tax credit to get it well below $40K. The fully-loaded Equinox EV I'm driving is about $54,000, which is also eligible for the tax credit, bringing it down to a still-impressive $46,500.
A Popular and Solid Contender
While many Equinox buyers will opt for more affordable models, Chevy sold more than 18,000 Equinox EVs in the fourth quarter of last year, making it one of the most popular EVs in the U.S. With a price starting at around $34,000, a range of 319 miles, fast charging capabilities, built-in Google apps, and sleek design, the Equinox EV is a solid option for first-time EV buyers.
Highlights include:
- Price: starts at around $34,000, and with the federal tax credit, you're below $28,000.
- Fast charging: Standard DC fast charging up to 150 kW can potentially add ~70 miles in about 10 minutes. Level 2 (AC) charging at up to 11.5 kW for home use.
- Large 17.7" infotainment display (standard on most trims).
- Built-in Google apps: Google Maps, Assistant, and Play are all included.
- Compact SUV size with a sleek exterior. (A bonus, as many EVs are getting bigger and heavier, which can drain battery life.)
- Spacious for a compact SUV, with ample cargo space.
- Built on GM's Ultium battery platform, shared with other GM EVs like the Blazer EV, Cadillac Lyriq, and Silverado EV as well as the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX.
- Over-the-air updates and advanced driver assistance features (Super Cruise available on higher trims).
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- The Equinox EV, an entry-level EV with a starting price below $30,000, offers advanced features such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a navigation system, making it a more affordable alternative to Tesla's Model Y.
- Despite not matching Tesla on price, the Equinox EV exists on GM's credit line, and after deducting the federal EV tax credit, its price falls below $28,000, making it an enticing choice for first-time EV buyers.
- Elon Musk might be synonymous with electric vehicles, but it's worth remembering that General Motors played a significant role in the EV market with the EV1 in 1996 and the Chevy Volt in 2010, and now with the Equinox EV, they continue to innovate and challenge the status quo.
