2025 GMC Sierra EV Denali: The New Range King of Electric Vehicles
The Lucid Air has been the reigning champion of EV range since its debut in 2022, leaving competitors in the dust—until now. In a surprising turn of events, the 2025 GMC Sierra EV Denali, a robust electric truck, has dethroned the Air in a real-world range test, proving that the world of electric vehicles (EVs) is evolving at a rapid pace. Here’s a closer look at this electrifying milestone and what it means for the future of EVs.
Breaking Records
In a recent independent range test conducted by Edmunds, the GMC Sierra EV Denali managed to achieve an astonishing 507 miles on a single charge, narrowly surpassing the Lucid Air Dream Edition’s 505 miles from a previous test. While this victory might seem slight, it’s monumental for a vehicle weighing nearly 8,800 pounds and sporting massive 24-inch wheels.
For perspective, the average American EV driver only needs about 42 miles of range per day. However, tests like these do more than just push boundaries—they address range anxiety, a major hurdle preventing wider EV adoption. Longer ranges make road trips more feasible, and for truck owners who rely on towing and hauling, having extra battery capacity is a significant advantage.
The Details Behind the Record Run
Edmunds’ testing conditions were carefully managed to reflect realistic driving scenarios. The test included a 60-40 mix of city and highway driving, with speeds kept within 5 mph of posted limits. The weather was ideal, with sunny skies and a mild temperature of 58°F.
Although the Lucid Air still holds the official EPA-rated range crown with 520 miles, the Sierra EV’s performance was particularly impressive because it far exceeded its EPA estimate of 460 miles. By covering an extra 47 miles, the Sierra showcased its ability to outpace expectations, a feat that highlights the advancements in EV battery technology.
For comparison, the median range of EVs sold in the U.S. in 2024 was just 283 miles. As these numbers climb, it’s clear that EVs are becoming more capable of meeting the needs of modern drivers.
Sibling Rivalry
The GMC Sierra EV Denali isn’t the only electric truck making waves. Its sibling, the Chevy Silverado EV RST, which shares GM’s Ultium platform, also outperformed its EPA-rated range. Rated at 450 miles, the Silverado covered an impressive 484 miles in the same range test.
These results position General Motors (GM) as a leader in the electric truck market, offering vehicles with unparalleled range capabilities.
The Trade-Off: Efficiency Matters
While the Sierra EV Denali’s range is remarkable, its efficiency leaves much to be desired. The truck consumed a hefty 48.1 kWh per 100 miles, equating to just 2.0 miles per kWh. In contrast, the Lucid Air delivered a far superior efficiency of 28.3 kWh per 100 miles, or 3.5 miles per kWh.
Efficiency becomes even more apparent when considering Lucid’s Air Pure, which achieved a groundbreaking 5.0 miles per kWh in testing. This performance underscores the importance of energy efficiency and aerodynamics in EV design. Trucks like the Sierra EV sacrifice efficiency for range, primarily due to their size, weight, and focus on towing and hauling capabilities.
What This Means for EV Trucks
The Sierra EV Denali’s achievement is a double-edged sword. While it proves that electric trucks can deliver exceptional range, it also highlights their inefficiencies. Trucks are inherently larger, heavier, and more power-hungry than sedans or crossovers, which means they require massive battery packs.
These larger batteries come with added costs, both in terms of manufacturing and recharging. However, for truck owners who prioritize towing and hauling, the trade-off is often worth it.
Will the Sierra EV Hold Its Crown?
While the Sierra EV Denali has claimed the title of real-world range king, its reign might be short-lived. The EV landscape is evolving rapidly, with manufacturers continuously pushing the envelope.
Sedans, which are typically more efficient than trucks, could easily surpass the Sierra’s range in the near future. Additionally, innovations in battery technology and energy management are likely to deliver even more impressive results in the years ahead.
The progress demonstrated by the GMC Sierra EV Denali and its peers signals a turning point in the EV market. Longer ranges and improved performance are addressing the concerns of skeptics who fear running out of power during long trips.
For truck enthusiasts, the Sierra EV proves that electric vehicles can handle demanding tasks without compromising on range. For the average driver, it’s a testament to how far EV technology has come, making it easier than ever to transition away from traditional gas-powered vehicles.
The GMC Sierra EV Denali’s real-world range achievement is a win for the electric vehicle industry. It shows that even large, heavy trucks can compete with (and even surpass) efficiency-focused sedans like the Lucid Air in terms of range.
However, this milestone also serves as a reminder that range is only one piece of the puzzle. Efficiency, cost, and practicality remain critical factors in determining the long-term success of any EV.
As the race to dominate the EV market heats up, one thing is clear: the future of electric vehicles is bright, and the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re a truck enthusiast or a casual EV admirer, there’s never been a more exciting time to watch this industry evolve.
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