The buzz around electric trucks is undeniable, and the Chevrolet Silverado EV is a model many have eagerly anticipated. Initially, Chevrolet sparked excitement with the promise of an entry-level $40,000 Silverado EV. However, the evolving economic landscape and pressures within the electric vehicle industry have shifted those plans. So, what is the real Silverado Ev Release Date, and what can you expect in terms of availability and pricing? Let’s delve into the details.
Chevrolet representatives recently confirmed that the originally planned $40,000 base model is no longer on the table. This news, delivered at the Silverado EV 4WT work truck media first-drive event, is a reflection of the broader challenges facing EV manufacturing, including rising material costs and supply chain constraints.
Despite this change in entry-level pricing, Chevrolet has assured enthusiasts that “competitively-priced” versions of the Silverado EV are still on the horizon, with launches beginning in 2023 and continuing into 2024. To clarify the current Silverado EV release schedule and pricing, here’s a breakdown of the models announced so far:
- Silverado EV 4WT (Work Truck): Priced at $79,800, this model is already in production and rolling out. It’s designed for fleet customers and boasts a large battery pack with an EPA-estimated range of 450 miles.
- Silverado EV 3WT (Work Truck): Following closely behind the 4WT, the 3WT is priced at $74,800 and is also aimed at fleet buyers. While EPA certification is pending, Chevrolet anticipates a range close to 400 miles.
- Silverado EV RST: Marking the entry into the retail consumer market, the RST trim is priced at $106,895 and is slated for release in the Fall of 2023. This top-tier trim is available for retail reservation and is expected to offer around 400 miles of range.
The Ford F-150 Lightning Pro has experienced significant price increases, highlighting the volatile pricing landscape in the EV truck market.
It’s important to note that the initial Silverado EV releases, the 4WT and 3WT, are primarily work-focused trucks intended for fleet operations. For individual consumers awaiting more accessible options, Chevrolet has confirmed plans for a range of retail-consumer versions, including work truck models and the Trail Boss, set to be released at varying price points.
Chevrolet has indicated that Silverado EV options starting “from $50,000” will become available. This is a significant point for potential buyers as it positions the Silverado EV to potentially undercut the Ford F-150 Lightning Pro, which has seen considerable price hikes. The F-150 Lightning Pro, once launched at $41,669 in spring 2022, now starts at $61,869 (including destination charges). This price escalation of over $20,000 in less than a year underscores the shifting economics of the EV truck market.
Adding a layer of financial incentive, potential buyers should also consider federal and state electric vehicle incentives. Combining these with the anticipated $50,000 starting price for certain Silverado EV configurations could indeed bring the final cost closer to the originally hoped-for $40,000 mark, depending on location and available incentives.
GM’s investment in a new parts factory for the Silverado EV signals ongoing commitment to its electric truck production and future releases.
The trend of initially promised affordable EV trucks facing price adjustments isn’t unique to Chevrolet. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, also acknowledged that the $40,000 base model of the Cybertruck is no longer feasible due to unforeseen inflation. External economic factors, such as post-pandemic supply chain disruptions, lithium processing shortages, and persistent inflation, are collectively impacting the pricing and release strategies across the electric pickup truck segment.
In conclusion, while the dream of a $40,000 Chevrolet Silverado EV in the initial release has been deferred, the Silverado EV release date for various trims is staggered through late 2023 and into 2024. For fleet customers, the 4WT and 3WT are either already available or coming very soon. Retail consumers can look forward to the Silverado EV RST in Fall 2023, with more “competitively priced” models, potentially starting around $50,000, expected to follow in 2024. The electric truck market is dynamic, and while initial affordability targets have shifted, Chevrolet remains committed to delivering a range of Silverado EV options to meet diverse customer needs and price points in the coming years.
Updates to the Chevrolet Silverado EV specs to align with the GMC Sierra EV highlight ongoing development and refinement leading up to broader release.
