Why The Chevy Equinox EV Is A Gamechanger

Jul 07, 2023

The Equinox EV takes up the entry-level Chevy EV slot until the next-gen Bolt EV arrives, and here's why it is revolutionizing the EV market.

The emergence of electric vehicles has ignited a substantial change in the automotive industry, giving rise to new competitors and fundamentally reshaping our outlook on transportation. Shifting our focus to the star of the show, the Chevy Equinox EV comes out as a pioneering model that surpasses the classic notions of electric vehicles. This captivating addition represents the forefront of EV technology and design breakthroughs. But, what sets the Chevy Equinox EV truly apart from its competition in the electric vehicle industry?

Related: 10 Things That Toyota Could Learn From The Chevy Equinox EV

The standard powertrain for Equinox EV front-wheel drive (FWD) models incorporates a singular forward motor. This foundational version brags 210 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the capabilities of the standard gasoline Equinox engine. An available upgrade option is the all-wheel drive model (AWD), featuring an additional motor on the rear axle. This setup yields a combined power output of 290 horses and 346 pound-feet of torque.

Chevrolet Equinox EV FWD

Chevrolet Equinox EV AWD

Powertrain

Single electric motor

Dual electric motor

Power

210 hp

290 hp

Torque

242 lb-ft

346 lb-ft

When it comes to distance covered on a single charge, a significant portion of the 2024 Equinox EV front-wheel drive variants achieves an impressive estimated range of 300 miles. Chevrolet has also confirmed that the base 1LT model will come equipped with a standard-range pack, offering a projected range of 250 miles on a full charge. Opting for the long-range pack, available as an alternative for the 1LT and standard for the 2LT, 3LT, 2RS, and 3RS versions, ensures a 300-mile range if you stick with the single-motor powertrain. The dual-motor configuration, exclusively paired with the long-range pack, results in a slight reduction of range to 280 miles.

Primarily, most Equinox EV owners will recharge their vehicles at home. To promote this, nearly all Equinox EVs are equipped with an 11.5-kW onboard charger, capable of adding up to 34 miles of range per hour. The 3RS AWD model provides an option for a 19.2-kW onboard charger. When connected to a Level 2 station that can deliver power at that rate, the Equinox 3RS enhances its range by 51 miles per hour.

While on the move, the Equinox EV can draw power at rates reaching 150 kW. Although not lightning-fast, a DC fast-charging station with this capacity can extend the range by approximately 70 miles within just 10 minutes. To facilitate locating charging stations and planning routes, both the myChevrolet and Ultium Charge 360 apps are available. These applications streamline the charging process, making it more convenient and accessible for Equinox EV owners.

Related: Why The Chevy Equinox EV Is So Special

Upon first glance, the Equinox EV boasts an expressive design characterized by a vigorous, confident presence that unmistakably identifies it as a Chevrolet SUV. The vehicle offers two distinct personas, the LT and RS, available across various trims, drive configurations, and range options.

Key highlights include:

Fortunately, Chevrolet has considerately provided press photos that offer a glimpse into the interior of the 1LT model, allowing us to explore the design of the Equinox EV. The front cabin derives a feeling of refined sophistication, evoking memories of a more peaceful interpretation of the chrome-enhanced Blazer EV. The addition of sleek turbine-style air vents that frame the dashboard, a neat steering wheel, dual digital displays, and tactile controls for volume and air conditioning all contribute to a well-structured and practical arrangement. While there is noticeable use of sturdy plastics, the contrasting stitching on the seats and the diamond-pattern accents on the dashboard trim boost the cabin's visual appeal beyond the typical expectations for a base model.

Advancing to higher trims elevates the interior atmosphere with premium materials. For instance, the 3LT trimm showcases an appealing blend of blue, beige, and brown hues, complemented by soft-touch door inserts and a leather interior. On the other hand, the RS models offer a sport-themed alternative, intensifying the impression with a blacked-out interior featuring striking red accents, despite the absence of any performance enhancements.

In terms of comfort and convenience, the Equinox EV offers heated front and rear outboard seats, a heated steering wheel, and an ingenious heated windshield wiper park feature that prevents ice buildup around the wipers, ensuring clear visibility.

In its base configuration, the 1LT variant showcases a dual arrangement of 11-inch screens and a digital instrument panel positioned before the driver, complemented by a center touchscreen. Moving up to the 2LT and 2RS models, an optional package introduces a notably larger 17.7-inch touchscreen, which becomes the standard configuration for the 3LT and 3RS iterations. Although a comprehensive list of Chevrolet's standard and optional features is on the horizon, it's expected that wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will become universally standard. Moreover, the more advanced models will seamlessly integrate in-dash navigation and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, thereby enhancing the overall connectivity experience.

However, one of the standout features of the Equinox EV is undoubtedly GM's Super Cruise system. Accessible as an optional extra on all models except the 1LT, Super Cruise grants you the ability to navigate highways in the U.S. and Canada without manual input (with coverage across over 400,000 miles by the time of the Equinox EV's launch). This technology ranks among the most advanced automated driving systems available, and its integration into a mass-market vehicle is a welcome development.

Related: Here's The Cheapest EV With 300 Miles Of Range - The Chevy Equinox EV

Safety takes center stage in the Equinox EV's design. Incorporated into every 2024 Equinox EV is the Chevy Safety Assist. Equinox EV embraces an extensive list of standard driving aids. Across all models, you'll find forward collision alerts with automatic braking, rear parking sensors with automatic braking, a blind-spot warning system, and the practical safety alert seat.

For those seeking heightened safety measures, a selection of additional active safety features is available. These are:

Related: How The Chevy Equinox EV Could Give Buick The Boost It Needs To Survive

Trim

Price

Equinox 1LT

$30,000 (est)

Equinox 2LT

$34,000 (est)

Equinox 3LT

$37,000 (est)

Equinox 2RS

$40,000 (est)

Equinox 3RS

$44,000 (est)

The base 1LT model is expected to start at approximately $30,000. However, opting for the front-wheel-drive 2LT appears to be the best choice. This upgrade incorporates a more sizable battery pack, translating into an estimated driving range of 300 miles. Furthermore, this package includes several supplementary features likely to pique the interest of most buyers. Among these enhancements are heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, upgraded 19-inch wheels, roof rails for added utility, and the GM's Super Cruise system.

The initial Equinox EV trim ready for market will be the 2RS, set to debut in the upcoming autumn. Chevrolet has assured prospective buyers that its complete range of trims will be available within the first year of production. However, even under the most optimistic circumstances, it won't be the cheapest EV on the market; that distinction belongs to Nissan Leaf, which is around $28,375. Nevertheless, what the Chevrolet Equinox EV will proudly offer is an extended range, a notably more contemporary interior, an elevated SUV stance, and a generous infusion of red, white, and blue elements.

Vlad's passion for cars started when he was still a kid, and he played his first game with cars. Nowadays, he dedicates most of his time to researching and writing about new car models. Vlad also finds enjoyment in honing his boxing skills and in playing chess.