It’s obvious that the Silverado 1500 and the Silverado EV are different trucks due to the fact that one is powered by a selection of all-electric powertrains, and one is powered by gas and diesel engines. But what else is different about these trucks? Is the Silverado EV just the same old Silverado with a battery instead of an engine? It turns out there’s more to it than that, and as you’re passing by your local Chevy dealer, you may be wondering just what sets these two full-size trucks apart. When it comes to the Silverado 1500 vs Silverado EV, besides the obvious gas vs electric comparison, what makes these two trucks different enough for drivers to choose one over the other?
Towing & Hauling Potential
Many drivers look for trucks that can tow, whether they’re seeking out a dedicated workmate or frequently trekking into the woods with a camper. Trucks are also great for hauling home materials from the hardware store and loading up gear for road trips and other outings. That’s why they need to be able to tow and haul more than other types of vehicles, and when it comes to the Silverado nameplate, any of these trucks offer impressive towing capabilities. Still, the Silverado 1500 offers a bit more than the EV version. When equipped with either the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel or the 6.2L EcoTec3 V8, the Silverado can tow up to 13,300 lbs, which is highly appreciated by hard workers and those regularly towing heavy loads. Payload capacity is remarkable as well, with its standard 2.7L TurboMax engine able to take on up to 2,260 lbs.
The Silverado EV is powerful as well, proving many naysayers wrong when they make assumptions about the strength of today’s electric vehicles. Either electric powertrain has the potential to tow up to 10,000 lbs; however, payload ratings are a bit lower than the gas and diesel-powered Silverado models. The maximum payload capacity for the Silverado EV is 1,440 lbs with its standard 200 kWh battery and dual electric motors, which still isn’t anything to complain about; it’s just different from what you’ll find in the traditional Silverado 1500 lineup.
Cargo Capacity
If there’s one thing that’s cool about EVs, it’s the fact that these models are awfully clever when it comes to cargo. Those cute little front trunks, or “frunks” as they call them in the biz, can take on some extra gear since there’s no need for a pesky engine anymore. This is exactly what you’ll find in the Silverado EV, offering an additional 10.7 cu.ft. of space for more travel belongings. Perhaps the most helpful item in the Silverado EV’s arsenal is the available Multi-Flex Midgate, which allows drivers to extend the bed into the cabin to accommodate anything they’re hauling. If you’ve got an extra long item you need to somehow fit into your truck, you can configure the midgate to suit your needs. Of course, there is also the Multi-Flex Tailgate, which is also found on regular Silverado models, so maximizing hauling potential is no sweat for the Silverado EV.
Trim Selection
The Silverado 1500 may not have that nifty Multi-Flex Midgate; however, it does offer drivers a more versatile array of trims to choose from than what’s found in the Silverado EV’s lineup. You’ve got everything from high-end luxury to simple work trucks and stylish highway cruisers to off-road warriors in the Silverado 1500’s arsenal. For drivers who envision themselves behind the wheel of a refined and elegant traveler, the High Country delivers with perforated leather seating surfaces, stitched accents, and open-pore wood trim throughout. Those who are seeking out adventure tend to gravitate toward the ZR2 and Trail Boss trims, which feature rugged elements to take on the wilderness. Don’t forget that this truck is utilized for work more often than not, which makes affordable and practical trims like the WT ideal for the myriad of drivers who need to put their noses to the grindstone on the job site each day.
The Silverado EV’s trim lineup is a bit sparse—for now. As the years go on for this electric pickup truck, you’re going to see more trims making their way into its lineup, but for now, interested parties have three options to choose from. There is the stylish First-Edition RST plus two WT trims available now; however, the Silverado EV will welcome the designer LT and rugged Trail Boss trims into the lineup in the future, as well as another WT option to help add some more versatility to its trim selection.
Exterior Presence
If you pulled each truck up next to one another on the streets, it would be obvious which truck was the EV and which was the regular Silverado 1500. The EV showcases that futuristic pizzazz we’ve been noticing in EVs and hybrids lately, with a dazzling light bar and curvy figure. With 24-inch aluminum wheels and a panoramic fixed-glass roof, the Silverado EV is an absolute showstopper. The Silverado 1500 is just as alluring as the EV but in its own way, and depending on which trim you happen to see passing you by, you’ll get a totally different vibe emanating from it. The High Country and LTZ showcase a sleek style that can’t be ignored, while the rugged ZR2 and Trail Boss trims present a fearless aura, marked by off-road cut bumpers, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and other durable elements. WT models are simpler in nature, while mid-level trims showcase the perfect blend of both, making the Silverado 1500 lineup absolutely mesmerizing.
Off-Road Performance
There isn’t an off-road variant in the Silverado EV’s selection yet, but Trail Boss models are coming. Until then, the Silverado 1500 offers a wide array of off-road-ready models, just waiting to amplify various adventures in the wilderness and beyond. Perhaps most exciting is the ZR2, which features Multimatic DSSV dampers, a specially tuned suspension system, 33-inch mud-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates to protect it from the elements. Drivers who want to make more of a statement on the trails will want to look closely at the ZR2 Bison, which boasts American Expedition Vehicles elements, including AEV bumpers, skid plates, and rock rails, as well as front tow hooks and 18-inch wheels to intensify any experience.
Innovative Features
Many travelers can’t live without their tech, which is where the Silverado EV really impresses. It not only showcases Super Cruise hands-free driving capabilities and Google built-in technology, but it presents all of your must-have apps and more on a massive available 17.7-inch touchscreen display. Although the traditional Silverado 1500 can also be equipped with Super Cruise and all that jazz, its selection of touchscreens is a bit smaller, with a 13.4-inch display as its largest available option. It’s not that big of a difference, but it can still be a deciding factor for some drivers out there who are tech-obsessed.
Silverado 1500 vs Silverado EV: Different Trucks, Different Experiences
It’s no secret that the Silverado is a respected truck lineup in the industry, and now, drivers have the opportunity to enjoy their ride in either a gas or electric variant. I think the most notable thing to take away from all of this is that Chevy didn’t just remove the engine from the Silverado 1500, throw a battery inside, and call it the Silverado EV. The automaker took the time to arm this truck with its own set of features, trims, and capabilities, making it truly different from traditional Silverado models. Both are remarkable choices on the market that are in tune with the needs of today’s drivers, and in true Chevrolet fashion, the bowtie brand succeeded in offering drivers even more options in the quest to find the ideal vehicles for their journeys.
