In the rotation of water cooler talk, few subjects are as exhausted as the skyrocketing price of gasoline. Think back to when the last time was that you did NOT complain about the pain at the pump. The more time goes on, the less likely we will ever see the cost of fuel significantly lower. Chevrolet recognizes this problem, as well as the opportunity. As Chevy moves into the future, its research and development department is working hard to design the EV versions of all its most popular models. The Chevy Equinox is one such model; look at the showroom of any Chevy Equinox dealership, and you’re bound to see satisfied customers driving away in the latest model. So when it came time to assess which of Chevy’s lineup should get an EV makeover, it was obvious which model was next to take the leap.
In 2005, Chevy first launched the Equinox as a midsize SUV. Nearly 20 years and numerous redesigns and upgrades later, the Chevy Equinox EV was born. It may seem like a natural progression, considering Chevy has also electrified their Silverado and Blazer and has long since had success with the Bolt and Bolt EUV. According to GM’s latest sales figures, Equinox sales are on the rise, with third-quarter sales for 2022 ranking third in the entire segment. In the first nine months of 2022, Equinox sales have gone up eight percent both in the United States and Canada. Considering the upward trend in EVs, it’s safe to say the up-and-coming Chevy Equinox EV will break its own records.
A Look at the Gas-Powered Versus the Electric-Powered Equinox
The gas-powered Equinox is undeniably a great SUV. It has stood the test of time and has achieved its fair share of impressive sales figures. The 2023 Equinox has tons of storage, a sporty exterior, and a reasonable, if not generous, MPG rating. It comes in four available trim levels and has plenty of options for making it feel like your very own. The 1.5L engine provides plenty of power and fun, delivering 175 hp. This powertrain is light and efficient, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. With comfortable seating for up to five passengers, the gas-powered Equinox has been an excellent option for drivers looking for a flexible and affordable compact SUV.
There is a lot more to the differences between the Equinox and the Equinox EV than just the electric powertrain. The two vehicles have different styles, with a noticeably more futuristic aesthetic to the Equinox EV. In place of the large front grille of the original Equinox, there is a flush, body-colored front stretching between a single line of LED headlights. This look is becoming recognized as the tell-tale sign of an EV since there is no need for air intake from a traditional grille.
As for power, the Equinox EV is faster than its gasoline-powered counterpart. Available in two battery size options, the 2024 Equinox EV comes in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The front-wheel drive model has an output of 210 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the all-wheel drive configuration delivers 290 hp and 346 lb-ft of torque. With up to 300 miles on a single charge, this zippy EV will take you wherever you need to go quickly and efficiently.
The at-home charging system doesn’t take up too much room in your home and is easy to operate, with the choice of either a Level 1 120-Volt or Level 2 240-Volt charging station. The standard home setup is an 11.5 kW Level 2 (AC) charging port that can add up to 34 miles of range per hour. With the rapid expansion of public fast charging stations, it’s becoming increasingly easier to charge while on the go.
An Array of Innovative Safety and Entertainment Tech
While the primary reason to get the Equinox EV is undoubtedly for its all-electric motor, it also comes with an array of exterior and interior features that are desirable, convenient, and maximizes comfort. While you might come for the 300-mile range and the 6-second 0 to 60 mph time, you’ll stay for the suite of safety and driver assistance features and the high-tech interior perks. The five available trims and range of exterior colors make this Equinox EV feel personalized and unique. You can choose from the 1LT, 2LT, 2RS, 3LT, and 3RS, and regardless of trim level, the Equinox EV accelerates with no hesitation, coaxing smiles from even the most reserved driver.
The 2024 Equinox EV comes with the brand’s suite of safety technologies called the Chevy Safety Assist. This ensemble includes automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, forward collision alert, IntelliBeam auto high beams, and a following distance indicator. Aside from the Chevy Safety Assist standard features, it also comes with a rear cross traffic alert to help you avoid collisions when objects, pedestrians, or other vehicles are behind you. The available Super Cruise feature lets you drive hands-free on over 400,000 mapped miles in the US and Canada. Chevy’s commitment to enhancing safety and driver assistance features means you can feel confident driving yourself and your loved ones in the Equinox EV.
Power and efficiency are critical when exploring a potential car purchase, but you can’t neglect the cabin. Thankfully, Chevy didn’t. The 2024 Equinox EX is outfitted with luxury touches and helpful components that make the most of every commute. A dazzling 17.7-inch diagonal touchscreen is situated in an ideal central position on the dashboard, is compatible with all of your favorite devices from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and even has navigation to charging stations. There is ambient, walk-up lighting that looks great and helps you safely enter the car at night; plus, there are even more high-end options available, like a heated, flat-bottom steering wheel, heated and ventilated seats, a heads-up display, and more.
The Equinox Joins Chevy’s Already Exceptional EV Lineup
The 2024 Equinox EV is a taste of what is to come from Chevrolet and the auto industry. With the continued success of vehicles like the Bolt, Bolt EUV, and soon-to-be Blazer EV, Silverado EV, and Equinox EV, Chevy is staying the course to provide their customers with an abundance of EV options. As the world moves away from fuel consumption and heads towards a renewable energy future, automakers will have to keep up or shut down. Along with the rising resistance to fuel dependency, regulators are also moving to create incentives for people to make the switch. As public fast charging stations become more available, consumers will have an easier time getting behind the idea of switching to an EV. Chevy is quickly positioning itself as a go-to manufacturer for drivers looking for a quality EV at an affordable price.
With the steady popularity of the gas-powered Equinox, it was a no-brainer for Chevy to introduce an EV alternative. Bold in design but not in pricing, the Equinox EV is shaping up to be an excellent choice among the electric motor segment of SUV options. With its sporty aesthetic, futuristic exterior, generous safety and driver assistance features, and stylish interior options, this Equinox EV is sure to steal some market share from its competitors. Few things draw drivers in, like quality at a fair price, and this EV delivers on all fronts. Don’t just take our word for it; get to your local Chevy Equinox dealer and experience the future of an all-electric Equinox for yourself.
