Real-World Range Test of the 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV: How Far Can It Really Go?
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV is one of the most anticipated electric pickups on the market, and for good reason. It offers a range of trims and configurations designed to meet the needs of a variety of drivers—from those requiring maximum range for long hauls to consumers seeking a more affordable, everyday electric truck. But how well does the Silverado EV perform in real-world conditions, especially when it comes to range? Let’s break it down and see how it fared in an independent range test.
Impressive Range Right Out of the Gate
The Silverado EV has a lot to offer, particularly in terms of its long-range capabilities. The fleet-oriented WT trim with the largest battery pack offers an impressive 492 miles of EPA-rated range. This is one of the longest ranges you can get in any electric pickup truck in the U.S. today. However, not everyone needs such an enormous battery. Larger battery packs make trucks heavier and require longer charging times. For those who don’t need maximum range but still want a robust electric experience, Chevrolet has introduced several other trims for the 2025 model year.
One of the standout versions for regular consumers is the 2025 Silverado EV LT Extended Range. This model starts at $75,195 and offers an EPA-estimated range of 408 miles. This is more than sufficient for most drivers and offers a balance of affordability, practicality, and range. For an additional $6,800, buyers can opt for the Premium Package, which includes Chevy’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system, larger wheels, and the innovative Multi-Flex Midgate.
Real-World Testing: How Does It Perform?
While EPA estimates are helpful, real-world testing often reveals a different story. The folks over at Out of Spec Testing decided to put the Silverado EV LT Extended Range to the test by charging it to 100% and hitting the highway. Their goal was to see how far this version could actually go at a steady 70 mph.
Several factors affect electric vehicle (EV) range, including driving speed, climate conditions, and the terrain. In this case, the test was conducted with normal tire pressure and the truck set to its most efficient driving mode—Normal. The climate control was kept in Eco mode, maintaining a temperature between 68 to 72 degrees. However, the outside temperature during the test ranged from 20 to 35 degrees, which isn’t ideal for maximizing range in any electric vehicle. Cold weather tends to reduce battery efficiency, meaning the Silverado EV would have to work harder to maintain speed and power.
Results- 320 Miles in 5 Hours
Despite these less-than-ideal conditions, the Silverado EV still performed admirably. Initially, the truck’s range estimate was right in line with the EPA estimate, indicating that it could go 390 miles on a full charge. However, after nearly five hours of highway driving, the vehicle began to show signs of range depletion. At that point, it wouldn’t accelerate above 66 mph, and the instrument cluster displayed a “Low” warning rather than a remaining mileage estimate.
The test ended after the truck had driven 320.6 miles over four hours and 52 minutes. The total energy consumed during the trip was 179.9 kWh. Considering the Silverado EV’s total battery capacity is around 182 kWh, this is a solid result. However, it’s worth noting that the actual range was about 18% lower than the EPA estimate.
What Does This Mean for Drivers?
While the real-world range of 320 miles is still impressive, it’s important to keep in mind that cold weather and headwinds can significantly affect an EV’s performance. If you’re planning a long road trip in the Silverado EV, it’s crucial to factor in these elements and be prepared for a slight reduction in range. It’s also worth noting that the EPA estimate is calculated under more favorable conditions, such as a warmer temperature, which is why the real-world test results tend to fall short.
That said, 320 miles of range is still more than enough for most drivers. For comparison, the average driver in the U.S. drives about 30 miles per day, so even with a slight reduction in range, the Silverado EV would easily meet most people’s daily driving needs without requiring frequent recharges.
The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range proves to be a strong contender in the electric pickup market. With an EPA-estimated range of 408 miles, it offers plenty of distance for everyday use, while the real-world test showed that it could still comfortably cover 320 miles on the highway under less-than-ideal conditions.
For consumers looking for a more affordable electric truck with a solid range, the Silverado EV LT Extended Range presents an excellent option. It strikes a balance between affordability, features, and range, making it a practical choice for those who don’t need the absolute maximum range but still want a reliable, long-distance electric vehicle. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or heading out on a road trip, this truck has what it takes to keep you going for miles on end.
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