The Blazer nameplate has seen a lot. The Blazer nameplate started as an SUV that could battle the Ford Bronco but then evolved into a more comfortable vehicle through the ’90s. In 2019, the badge was retired and was reintroduced as a crossover to very mixed reviews. The Blazer now has the coveted “EV”, tacked onto its badge, and GM’s highly-heralded Ultium batteries under the floor. The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer Electric Vehicle will not be built on the same platform as the Blazer SUV.
Chevrolet has confirmed that the Blazer EV will come in four trims familiar to Chevy owners: 1LT-2LT, RS, and SS. Blazer EV SS will also be available. Versions will be available for police and fleet departments. We have all the information we can about GM’s plans for this family-friendly, electric crossover.
What gets is the Blazer EV moving?
The GM BEV3 platform is hidden beneath Chevy’s distinctive sheet metal. It is also known as a skateboard. The chassis houses all major electrical components. Skateboards are a popular choice for EV manufacturers as they can be easily modified to fit different-sized vehicles. It is the base of the new Cadillac Lyriq, the upcoming Cadillac Celestiq, and the Chevrolet Equinox EV. It is also the platform for Honda’s highly-anticipated Prologue.
Blazer EV will use GM’s Ultrium technology and will be offered in all-wheel-drive, front-, and rear-drive configurations. Blazer EV is the first vehicle to offer both FWD and RWD. Although Chevrolet has yet to release battery specs or power outputs, the Blazer’s platform is identical to the Cadillac Lyriq’s. We expect around 100 kWh of storage and 300 horsepower for the entry-level models. The Blazer EV SS, which is the range-topping model, will have a maximum power output of 557 hp, and 648 lb-ft of torque. This, Chevy claims, allows for a crazy-fast 0-60 mph time of fewer than four seconds. Chevy claims that it can provide up to 320 miles depending on the trim level.
Blazer EV can be charged via Level 2 charging at rates of up to 11.5kW. You can also use the Blazer EV’s standard DC fast-charging hardware to charge your device while you are on the move. This draws electricity at a rate of up to 190 kW. This charger will give you nearly 80 miles in range in just 10 minutes. The Ultrium 360 program by GM will allow owners to locate a charger. It pulls data from seven national charging networks.
What’s the interior like of the Blazer EV?
The 17.7-inch touchscreen will greet front passengers. The Blazer’s interior styling is the same as before, but there are some subtle differences. There is a third air vent underneath the touchscreen and a new transmission lever that replaces the Blazer’s shifter at the center console. The 11-inch digital instrument panel is available to the driver. Ambient lighting is also provided by the SS and RS models. These distinguish them from other pedestrian trims.
Blazer EV is a mid-size SUV with two rows. We expect the second row to have ample legroom due to the flat floor and battery packaging. Chevy claims that the Blazer EV will have a large cargo capacity and that the tailgate can be opened with a key fob located near the rear.
What’s Blazer Electric’s tech?
The Super Cruise semi-automated driving program from GM is top of the list. Although it is not available on all roads, some interstates and highways do have access to the system, and our experience with the technology has been positive. The navigation system can plan your route with charging stations and use predictive range calculations to ensure you have enough juice to reach your destination.
The Safety Assist suite includes driver assistance features that are standard on the Blazer E-Vet. This includes automatic emergency brakes, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. If you’re interested in features such as reverse automatic brake and an automated parking system, they are available on the options menu. Blazer EV also offers over-the-air updates as well as a power-operated charging door.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
Chevrolet has not yet released horsepower figures for the 1LT and 2LT models. However, the range-topping SS will only come with a 557-hp electrical powertrain with standard all-wheel drive. According to Chevy, the model will reach 60 mph in less than 4.0 seconds. The 1LT model is only available with front-wheel drive, while the 2LT model can be ordered with either front-wheel or all-wheel drives. Curiously, the RS model is available with either front-wheel or rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional. We’ll update this story when more information becomes available about the Blazer Electric Vehicle’s powertrains.
Range, Charging, Battery Life
Chevy has not released any information about the dimensions of the Blazer EV’s battery packs, but we do know that the RS model will have the longest EPA-estimated driving range at 320 miles. The 1LT entry-level model will deliver 247 miles on a single charge, while the 2LT or SS trims can go 293 and 290 respectively. The Blazer EV can be charged on a DC fast charger. Chevrolet claims it can also charge at up to 193 kW, adding about 78 miles in 10 minutes.
Fuel Economy and Real World MPGe
The Blazer EV’s fuel economy ratings have not been released yet and will likely not be until the SUV’s summer 2023 on-sale date. We will test the Blazer Electric Vehicle (EV) on our 75-mph highway route to see if it is a good choice for us. Then, we’ll update this article with test results and driving range. Visit the EPA website for more information on the Blazer EV’s fuel economy.
Connectivity and Infotainment
All models include a 17.7-inch infotainment screen that is tilted slightly toward the driver. It’s framed on the left, the bottom, and physical controls for climate control and volume. The secondary display, measuring 11.0 inches, provides additional driving information and gauges to the driver. Chevrolet has not yet provided any information about the Blazer EV’s infotainment system. However, we believe it to be GM’s most recent, which is Android Auto-based. We expect plenty of standard connectivity features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety and driver-assistance features
Chevrolet will bundle a variety of driver assistance features as standard. This includes automated emergency braking and lane-keeping aid. GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system is also available. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety websites for more information on the Blazer EV’s crash test results. The following safety features are key:
- Automatic pedestrian detection and standard automated emergency braking
- Standard lane departure warning with lane-keeping assistance
- Available adaptive cruise control with hands-free driving mode