2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV: A Comprehensive Review

Chevrolet's 2026 Silverado EV has made a significant impact since its debut, with its massive range and quick acceleration setting high expectations. The vehicle's electric powertrain does not compromise its practicality as a truck. The Silverado EV boasts a maximum towing capacity of 12,500 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,800 pounds. These figures are close to those of its gasoline counterpart, showcasing the EV's capability in handling heavy loads. The battery, while adding weight, provides an impressive EPA-estimated range of up to 493 miles, depending on the configuration. This makes the Silverado EV a practical choice for those needing both utility and sustainability in their vehicle.

Significant updates for the 2026 model year include the introduction of the Trail Boss variant, which enhances the Silverado EV's off-road capabilities. This trim features a factory-installed lift, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and unique styling elements like red tow hooks and a redesigned bumper. The inclusion of a dedicated Terrain mode further expands the truck's versatility, making it a compelling choice for outdoor adventures. The Trail Boss variant not only caters to enthusiasts looking for ruggedness but also broadens the appeal of the Silverado EV to a wider audience.

The Silverado EV's pricing reflects its advanced technology and variety of features, with the base model starting at $54,895 and reaching up to $91,295 for the top-tier trims. While the base trims are somewhat minimalistic, higher trims like the LT offer luxury features such as power-adjustable, heated and ventilated seats, a large center touchscreen, and a premium Bose audio system. These features provide a comfortable and high-tech driving experience, aligning with the expectations for modern electric vehicles.

Under the hood, the Silverado EV is equipped with two electric motors that deliver robust performance across its trims. The Trail Boss offers up to 725 horsepower, while the LT trim can reach up to 760 horsepower, all with standard all-wheel drive. Despite its size, the truck offers a smooth ride akin to an SUV, though its braking performance has room for improvement. Nevertheless, the Silverado EV's acceleration is notably fast, with the RST model achieving 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds using its 'Wide Open Watts' mode. This performance, combined with the truck's robust build, makes it a formidable player in the electric vehicle market.

The Silverado EV's interior emphasizes both comfort and utility. The cabin is spacious, offering ample room for passengers and a variety of storage solutions. High-end models come with luxurious touches such as a fixed glass roof and leather upholstery, while the work truck models focus on practicality with easy-to-clean materials. The infotainment system features an 11.0-inch digital gauge cluster and a 17.7-inch touchscreen, though it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Instead, it relies on a customizable Google-based software, which may require some adjustment for users accustomed to other systems.

Safety features are a strong suit for the Silverado EV, with standard offerings like adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The availability of GM’s hands-free Super Cruise adds an extra layer of convenience for drivers. In terms of warranty, Chevrolet provides a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. As the electric truck market becomes increasingly competitive, the Silverado EV stands out with its balance of performance, range, and practicality.