General Motors seems to be making impressive strides with its Ultium platform, with the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV proving to be a significant contender in the electric vehicle market. Car and Driver’s recent testing of the Silverado EV RST revealed some promising results that showcase the potential of GM’s electric architecture.
One standout feature of the Silverado EV is its fast-charging capability. During testing, the Silverado averaged an impressive 198 kW while going from a 10 to 90 percent state of charge. This makes it the fastest-charging electric vehicle that Car and Driver has tested, setting a new record with its peak charge rate of 315 kW. The ability to sustain high charging rates for an extended period is a significant advantage, especially for long-distance travel.
In addition to its fast-charging capabilities, the Silverado EV also impressed with its driving range. The vehicle managed to cover an impressive 400 miles in Car and Driver’s 75-mph highway range test, surpassing the Hummer EV by 110 miles. This puts the Silverado in an elite group of electric vehicles that can offer real-world range comparable to traditional internal combustion vehicles.
When it comes to acceleration, the Silverado EV showcased two distinct modes that highlight its performance capabilities. In WOW (Wide Open Watts) mode, the Silverado delivered an exhilarating 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds, thanks to its 754-hp peak output. However, without the WOW mode engaged, the acceleration time slowed to 5.8 seconds, which, while still quick for a vehicle of its size and weight, falls short of some of its competitors.
Overall, the testing of the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV RST indicates that GM is making significant progress with its Ultium platform. The improvements in range and charging speed are a positive sign of things to come for the electric vehicle lineup. As GM continues to refine its electric architecture, it will be interesting to see how these advancements will translate to smaller and more affordable models in the future.
Jacob Kurowicki, a member of the Car and Driver testing team, expressed his passion for all things automotive, from high-performance vehicles to quirky outliers. His experience with the Silverado EV testing further solidified his love for the automotive world and the exciting developments taking place in the electric vehicle market.