Chevy’s Equinox EV is Available Now, But Not the $35,000 Model

GM has started delivering the Chevy Equinox EV, its most affordable electric SUV to date.

The vehicle currently starts at $43,295 for a 2LT front-wheel drive model with the destination fee included. All models currently qualify for the $7,500 U.S. EV tax credit. Front-wheel drive models manage an estimated 319 miles of range, making it unusually capable in the price class.

All versions of the Chevy Equinox EV run on Google Built-in, and revolve around a 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen as well as an 11-inch digital instrument cluster. The 2LT adds heated and powered seats, adaptive cruise control, “HD Surround Vision,” a power liftgate, and options like Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2RS configuration brings 21-inch wheels (up from 19) with optional red color accents. A 3LT adds dual-zone climate control, ventilated seats, a power front passenger seat, and a heated wiper park. The range-topping 3RS offers the red of the 2RS as well as a flat-bottom steering wheel.

Those looking for the promised entry-level version, however, will have to wait. GM said the $34,995 Chevy Equinox EV 1LT won’t be available until “later in the year.” That model has manual-only seats and doesn’t have the standard or optional driver assistance technologies, but could also represent one of the better values in electric SUVs.

The debut might be well-timed. The EV market is struggling, and brands like GM and Ford have shifted some attention toward hybrids. A relatively low-priced option like this could draw buyers who previously had to shop upscale to go electric, including Chevy’s own Blazer EV.

There’s pressure to act quickly, as well. Tesla plans to accelerate its launches for more affordable EVs after dealing with a rough first quarter, and competitors like Rivian are entering the semi-affordable realm with options like the R2 and R3. A foothold in the category now would help GM fend off these potential threats.