Performance

At the core of the Blazer EV is the Ultium platform which also powers the Silverado EV, as well as more EVs to come. The platform sometimes nicknamed the “skateboard,” consists of a flat 102 kWh lithium battery located on the floor between the front and rear axles. Single-motor Blazer models will have the motor mounted between the rear axles for rear-wheel drive. Dual-motor models add a motor at the front axle for all-wheel drive, which will likely be the drivetrain of choice in Twin Falls. In AWD form, the SS will produce 557 horsepower and up to 648 lb-ft of torque, while a unique WOW (Wide Open Watts) mode, which features a temporary power boost, will enable 0-60 sprints of less than 4 seconds. At the same time, the low-mounted battery produces a low center of gravity for flat handling in the curves.

For more casual driving, the Blazer EV features one-pedal driving in which braking can begin with the release of the accelerator pedal, all the way down to a stop. You might only use the brake pedal for emergency braking.

The operating range will vary from 279 miles to a possible 320 miles on a full charge depending on the model. You will want to charge your Blazer at home with a Level 2 whenever possible, but on the road, its fast DC-direct charging capability of up to 190 kW, can add approximately 78 miles in 10 minutes, based on GM estimates.

Exterior

Every angle of the Blazer expresses performance. The front changes in each trim level, with the RS adding a black grille and the SS adding a far more aggressive grill, side intakes, and lower air dam. RS and SS models also include full-width LED lighting across the front and rocker panels on the side. The body features flowing coke-bottle body surfaces with a blacked-out side window treatment. The roofline gently flows to the rear, and it all adds up to a vehicle that looks like it’s in motion while standing still. The wheel wells are filled out with 19-inch alloys on the 2LT, upgrading to 21-inch wheels on the RS, and 22-inch multi-finish wheels on the SS. The SS also adds a blacked-out canopy roof.

Interior

The performance design carries to the interior, where the driver is greeted by a thick-rim three-spoke steering wheel in front of an 11-inch digital driver information screen. In the center of the instrument panel, but canted toward the driver, is a large intuitive 17.7-inch-diagonal customizable infotainment touchscreen. Camaro-inspired HVAC vents add to the performance theme. All models feature ambient lighting, which can be customized on RS and SS trims. With a compact drivetrain and a flat floor, passengers have plenty of space to stretch out. When in cargo mode, the rear seats fold flat with the cargo floor. The RS features added design with blue and red contrast stitching. Sueded microfiber seating is found on the SS, which is available with striking Adrenaline Red seating surfaces.

Technology

The Blazer EV is so accommodating even a start button isn’t necessary. The driver simply pushes the brake pedal after closing the door, and the Blazer EV is ready to go. Navigation is accessible through the MyChevy app, which can also find and plan routes to charging stations. A pad on the front console can charge most modern cell phones, and USB jacks allow for further connectivity.

All models come standard with Chevy Safety Assist, a suite of safety features including:

• Åutomatic Emergency Braking
• Forward Collision Alert
• Front Pedestrian Braking
• Following Distance Indicator
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Intellibeam auto high beams

Also available is Enhanced Automated Parking Assist, which can perfectly place the Blazer EV in a detected parallel or perpendicular parking space. Also available on the SS will be GM’s famed Super Cruise which allows true hands-free driving on over 400,000 miles of highway in North America. Finally, there is the Ultifi platform behind all of the Blazer EV’s electronics that can enable over-the-air seamless upgrades, personalization options, and new applications to drivers on demand as well as regular software upgrades.