We’re expecting a big moment in a little more than three weeks when Chevrolet unveils its first electric truck. And then, we’re expecting to wait. A full year.
At next month’s CES consumer electronics show in Las Vegas, Nevada, Chevrolet will take the wraps off an all-electric version of its best-selling vehicle, the Silverado full-size truck. GM CEO Mary Barra is expected to unveil the truck during her keynote speech.
But, Automotive News reports, production won’t begin until January 2023.
A year-long delay between seeing a new vehicle in the sheet metal for the first time and seeing the first models pull into dealership lots is not unusual. And GM is likely expecting to sell a LOT of electric Silverados. That will require scaling up its electric vehicle (EV) production capabilities.
Ultium Battery, 4-Wheel Steering
The Silverado EV is almost certain to ride on the same platform as other new GM EVs, including the GMC Hummer and Cadillac Lyriq. GM has invested heavily in a new battery system and a scalable architecture for EVs called Ultium.
Chevy has previously promised the truck will offer 4-wheel steering and a panoramic glass roof.
Ford Has a Head Start
But the news gives Ford and upstart Rivian a significant head start in the electric truck race. Rivian delivered its first electric truck into customer hands in September. Ford has not yet delivered an electric truck to a buyer, but the company recently closed reservations for its all-electric F-150 Lightning after more than 200,000 buyers reserved one.
