Latest news with #ChevroletBlazerEVSS
Hamilton Spectator
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hamilton Spectator
This car has gone electric and it's an absolute beast
CONCORD, N.C.—I can't remember the last time I experienced such braking force. At least, when I was behind the wheel. It's incredible! Recently, I was on a closed course in North Carolina to test the track performance of the all-new 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS. One of the exercises Chevy put me through is launch control, which I have done before, but not in an EV. Launch control consists of putting the foot to the floor on both the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time. You then lift your left foot off the brake and launch the car. Simple, right? Not this time. I kinda screwed it up. I had my Blazer EV SS tester pointed down the front straight on track, and once I got the OK from my co-pilot, a Chevy engineer, I lifted my left foot off the brake. And my Radiant Red Tintcoat Blazer EV SS rocketed down the track with such force, the back of my head hit the headrest. 0-97 km/h in 3.4 seconds? Can confirm. Bright orange cones marked the braking point down range, but my brain didn't switch back to right-foot braking, so, instead, I used my left. Big mistake. I don't normally use my left foot for anything except clutch work, which is a rare occurrence in new cars these days. Instead of decelerating smoothly, my left foot mashed the brake pedal. Hard. I jerked myself and the engineer violently forward. The car went into limp mode. OnStar, GM's emergency services hotline, called in asking us if we were OK and needed help. We didn't. But I could've used some for my acute case of embarrassment. The warning symbol on the gigantic 17.7-inch infotainment display was dismissed after I parked the car trackside and opened the door to restart. Everything was fine. I apologized profusely to the engineer. He took it in stride. As my embarrassment began to fade, I cracked a lame joke about how good the SS's Brembo brakes are. He laughed. Or humoured me at least. We carried on without further incident. So, if you wanted to know if the Blazer EV SS is, indeed, a performance machine, my experience is proof positive that it is. The SS model, which joins the LT and RS in the Blazer EV lineup, gets all the performance kit Chevy can throw at it. The most important is propulsion, which comes from dual electric motors and a 102-kWh lithium-ion battery. Total output is rated at 615 horsepower and 650 lbs.-ft. of torque, or motive force. To match its immense power, Chevy has beefed up the Blazer EV SS chassis. This means stiffer anti-roll bars and stiffer front and rear springs, which are 60 per cent and 30 per cent firmer, respectively, than those on the regular Blazer EV. These changes contribute to a sportier ride, while a faster steering ratio and Monotube dampers deliver quicker steering and vehicle response. Standard 22-inch wheels and low-profile Michelin all-season tires also help with the steering. Optional Continental summer performance tires included in the Performance Package ($495) improve handling and grip even more. Then there's the stopping force from the Brembo brakes, which performed quite well during my accidental test. These enhancements really make a difference for road driving. While the Blazer EV SS handles well enough on track, it's not designed for this use. Chevy reps talked a lot about its 'canyon carving' abilities during the product briefing, and I think it's a good descriptor, based on my experience on Charlotte-area roads. Its stiffer chassis, bigger tires and excellent brakes make the Blazer EV SS a fun car for zooming along on two-lane country roads, of which there are many in the Charlotte area. Body lean is minimal, steering feels light and accurate, and its big power output make for a very fast performance EV. Canyon carver, indeed. And the performance character extends to the cabin. The flat bottom steering wheel, adrenalin-red, perforated synthetic leather seats, and large digital displays really drive the sporty feel. The displays, especially the 17.7-inch multimedia touchscreen, are customizable, with pin-sharp graphics and a glut of deep colour. Because the centre display is powered by Google, it doesn't support phone-tethering with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. But native Google Maps worked well in my test vehicle, and I didn't miss CarPlay much. It is something buyers should consider, however. Of note, most GM EVs use the same tech. Overall, the Blazer EV SS checks EV boxes, with up to 190-kW charging speeds and 488 km of range. It can also be fitted with a NACS DC adapter ($325) for use on the Tesla Supercharger network. The Blazer EV SS has a lot going for it; it offers sharp styling, loads of standard high-tech features … oh, and blistering performance. Type: Battery-electric, mid-size SUV, all-wheel drive Motor: Dual electric motors plus 102 kWh battery; 615 horsepower, 650 pounds-feet of torque (motive force) Transmission: Single-speed direct drive Fuel: 2.5 litres equivalent/100 km in the city; 3.0 Le/100 km on the highway; 2.8 Le/100 km combined Range: 488 km Cargo: 730 litres, or 25.8 cubic feet; 1,693l, or 59.8 cu. ft. in total Price: $69,999; $71,894 as tested, plus $2,600 freight
Toronto Star
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- Toronto Star
This car has gone electric and it's an absolute beast
CONCORD, N.C.—I can't remember the last time I experienced such braking force. At least, when I was behind the wheel. It's incredible! Recently, I was on a closed course in North Carolina to test the track performance of the all-new 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS. One of the exercises Chevy put me through is launch control, which I have done before, but not in an EV. Launch control consists of putting the foot to the floor on both the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time. You then lift your left foot off the brake and launch the car.
USA Today
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS midsize SUV is the brand's fastest SS ever
2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS midsize SUV is the brand's fastest SS ever Show Caption Hide Caption Video: 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS first drive Chevy's SS performance badge is reborn for the electric age in a 3.4-second 0-60 mph SUV The 2025 Blazer EV SS covers 303 miles on a charge. It gets its speed from 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS is in dealerships now. Prices start at $60,600. Chevrolet's renowned SS performance badge makes a leap into the future ― and the really fast lane ― with the electric 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS midsize SUV. The SS badge has adorned legendary Chevrolets since it debuted on the 1961 Impala SS. Other bearers included Chevelle and Malibu SS vehicles in the muscle car era. Leading Chevy's charge into the EV era, the Blazer EV SS is the quickest vehicle in the line's history: 3.4 seconds 0-60 mph. The upgraded SUV also boasts a 303-mile range on a charge and a host of mechanical upgrades to handle the SS package's 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of peak power. The Blazer EV SS is in dealerships now. 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV competitors Ford Mach-E GT: $52,495 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: $66,200 Kia EV6 GT: $61,600 Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition: $70,200 Tesla Y Performance: $51,490 Source: Free Press research, Edmunds. Prices exclude import tariffs and destination charges. 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV trim levels and prices LT: $44,600 RS: $49,900 SS: $60,600 Source: Edmunds Prices exclude new import tariffs and $1,495 destination charge. Driving impressions I recently experienced the Blazer SS on roads ranging from the 10/10s Motor Club private track in the shadow of Charlotte Motor Speedway to the backroads and hills around Kannapolis, where pennants hanging from light poles, a park statue and more honor favorite son and professional fast-Chevy wheelman Dale Earnhardt. The Blazer SS is fast, easy to drive, comfortable, roomy and practical ― at a price that compares very favorably to other high-performance electric SUVs. 2025 Acura MDX review: Here are 5 reasons to buy the new luxury SUV The steering ― a faster ratio than lesser Blazer EVs ― and suspension ― stiffer roll bars and springs ― deliver responsive handling in quick maneuvers. Front Brembo brake calipers combine with well-tuned one-pedal driving for good stopping power that's easy to modulate. Selectable driving modes include Wide Open Watts ― you're going to make me say "WOW Mode," aren't you? ― that raises output 100 hp and 200 pound-feet of torque from "normal" mode's already admirable 515 hp and 450 pound-feet. Competitive mode, a subset of the Z-mode performance setting, reduces traction control and tunes power delivery and brakes for maximum grip on fast, twisty tracks. Supportive sport seats feature contrast stitching including a signature 'Argon Orange' that extends to bright seat belts. What makes the Blazer EV SS special? 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds 11.9-second 1.4 mile at 115 mph Up to 615 hp and 650 pound-feet of torque Full-time all-wheel drive Brembo front brake calipers Customizable drive modes 22-inch all-season Michelin or summer Continental tires Faster steering ratio 102 kWh battery Up to 190 kW charging speed Mew inverter materials and magnet construction dissipate heat to boost range. Launch mode Available video YouTube and Peacock streaming during charging Why buy a 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS? The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS leaves almost nothing to be desired if you want a high-performance electric SUV. It looks great, thanks to eye-catching unique orange or blue colors, a black roof, unique rocker panels and bronze Brembo front brake calipers. There's plenty of room for people and cargo, and more power than any owner's ever likely to need. The big battery makes it a heavy vehicle ― Chevy doesn't reveal its curb weight, never a good sign ― but capable tires, steering and suspension upgrades compensate for that mass in enthusiastic driving. 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS at a glance All-wheel drive five-seat midsize electric performance SUV Base price: $60,600 (All prices exclude import tariffs and $1,450 destination charge) On sale now Price as tested: $60,995 Power: One electric motor on each axle Output: 515 hp; 450 pound-feet of torque in normal modes; 615 hp, 650 pound-feet in Wide Open Watts mode Transmission: Single-speed direct drive Battery: 102 kWh lithium-ion EPA estimated range on a charge: 303 miles Maximum charging speed: 190 kW DC; 11.5 kW 240v AC Charging time: 78 miles in 10 minutes w/190kW DC; about nine hours @ 240v. Wheelbase: 121.8 inches Length: 192.6 inches Width: 78 inches (86.5 including mirrors) Height: 64.8 inches Ground clearance: 7.5 inches Passenger volume: 104 cubic feet (estimated) Cargo volume: 25.8 cubic feet behind rear seat; 59.8 rear seat folded (25.5/59.1 without sunroof) Curb weight: NA Assembled in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
Business Mayor
26-04-2025
- Automotive
- Business Mayor
The Android Auto And Apple CarPlay Debate
I was having a conversation with Yuri Tereshyn, from The Straight Pipes YouTube channel, about projection-based infotainment systems versus native interfaces. He argued that Apple CarPlay is what splits the difference between a good user experience and an awful one, while I was trying to explain to him why, in the case of electric vehicles (EVs), you're better off with a native infotainment system. This was all happening during the first drive launch event of the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS, a vehicle which, just like all of GM's latest EVs, makes do with a fully native setup. It was a relevant debate, because one week prior, I was also speaking with Lucid's lead software integration engineer about the decisions automakers currently have to make regarding projection apps. Turns out the very conversation Yuri and I were having is also ongoing behind closed doors. So, what's better? A projection-based system that allows you to use Android Auto and Apple CarPlay? Or a native infotainment system that allows you to download your apps directly to your car? Related Chevy's first-ever all-electric SS model packs plenty of straight-line firepower, but it's also a fantastic handler. Projection-Based Systems Are Currently The Most Popular Before we dig deeper in search of answers, perhaps it's best if we begin by defining what projection-based systems are and why they are different to a native, subscriber-based system. As I write this, projection-based systems are the most widespread type of infotainment interface. Its name comes from the fact that it allows you to project the contents of your phone directly into the car's infotainment system through apps like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The projection can either be done by physically connecting your phone to the car using a USB cable, or, as is becoming more and more the case, wirelessly through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology. Honda The obvious benefit of such technology is that it allows you to have access to your most useful phone apps on the car's main screen, like your contacts, text messages, calendars, music apps like Spotify or Apple Music, as well as your favorite navigation app like Google Maps, or Waze. Both Apple and Google have perfected these apps over time to streamline their operation, as well as closely working with automakers to have them better integrate the cars. But these apps remain a projection of your phone, meaning they're not part of your car's infotainment system. If, for instance, the automaker releases an update for your car's music player, neither Android Auto nor Apple CarPlay will notice. There's also a lot of data collection going on, allowing both Apple and Google to have access to your driving-related habits and behaviors. Finally, in the case of EVs, since projection apps are not part of the car's default system, they cannot predict your available range, correlate it with their navigation apps, nor can they make suggestions for public charging on the go. Yes, Google Maps can show you where public chargers are located on the map, but it pretty much ends there. Native infotainment systems, rather, do without Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. That's because the system itself allows you to create a user profile and download your favorite apps directly to your car. While still relatively new in the industry, this sort of system has been used by Tesla since the very first Model S came out in the early 2010s, making it the pioneer of the genre. Today, other automakers like General Motors, Volvo, and Rivian have attempted to go down that path as well, using their own proprietary, Google-based interface. The benefits of this technology are to allow your car to handle all of your connectivity features, and never have to look at your phone again while driving. Since your profile is already set up with your favorite navigation and audio apps downloaded, and since most new cars already come with mobile apps in which you can sync a driver profile and its preferences, each time you enter your car, everything is right there in your reach. William Clavey | TopSpeed Native infotainment systems effectively transform your car into a giant device, which is the natural evolution of things in a world where we're all connected to a device in one way or another. The system also allows you to download additional features you simply can't get with projection apps, like YouTube, games, or streaming services like Netflix. Related GM's recently updated ICE models all get essentially the same Google-based infotainment system as its EVs. Yet, Apple CarPlay remains. Why? Finally, for EVs, since native infotainment systems are actually part of your car, they can predict how much range you've got left based on your navigation settings and how much you'll have left when you arrive at your destination, suggest public fast charging stops, recommend how long to stay at that charger, and automatically precondition the car's battery before initiating the charge cycle. Projection apps cannot do this, at least not yet. But What About The Data? William Clavey | TopSpeed And what about data collection? If Apple and Google aren't taking it anymore, then does it mean it's going straight to the carmaker? Yes, which brought Yuri and me to the root of our argument. The core reason more and more automakers are contemplating taking control of the entire connectivity aspect of their cars is to avoid third-party companies like Apple and Google from leaving with the data. Automakers would much rather keep all of that data for themselves. At the moment of writing this story, automakers are restricted by strict regulations about selling or sharing your data. The information collected, automakers say, serves solely to improve their vehicles through over-the-air (OTA) updates. But what about cybersecurity risks? 'Would you rather trust Apple, or any other automaker to safeguard your data? I choose Apple. Plus, CarPlay is like a buffer between my phone and my car. I don't need to log into my car on top of that. Maybe it's a false sense of security, but if I don't have to, I'd rather not give my information to an automaker at all!' – Yuri Tereshyn, The Straight Pipes William Clavey | TopSpeed Yuri's got a good point. Some users may not want to go with a native infotainment system simply because of the hassle of having to log into that system. Sure, dealerships take care of much of that pain point when you purchase a new car through pre-dealer inspections, and once you're all set up, you technically never need to fiddle with it again. In GM's case, an existing Google account is all it takes. But there's another element surrounding native systems that could prove to be a turn-off to users: subscriptions. GM currently sells its new vehicles with free OnStar and connectivity during the first few years of ownership, but once all of that expires, you'll need to pay in order to keep these features going. Related Even if it's not a 'real' Honda, the 2025 Prologue manages to hold its own. Yuri and I agreed that the best of both worlds would be a vehicle that offers both the possibility of logging directly into the car's system, but that also preserves the possibility to project apps like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Honda Prologue is one such vehicle. Built as the result of a joint venture between General Motors and Honda, it's essentially a rebadged Chevrolet Equinox EV equipped with a native infotainment system. Yet, Honda chose to leave Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity for those who don't yet feel comfortable logging into the system. William Clavey | TopSpeed Of course, consumer reaction and demand will dictate which system will prevail. But GM is currently dealing with a lot of backlash regarding its decision, and has increased its dealer and in-car education surrounding its system. A recent update has added a prompt in GM EVs to remind the driver to set up their profile in the system, followed by a rather easy step-by-step procedure including a QR code. I have personally logged into all the GM EVs that I have tested and have no issue with the system. And I personally am not intimidated by the idea of an automaker collecting my data. But for people like Yuri who don't yet trust the auto industry's data-collecting practices and the cybersecurity that surrounds it, projection apps remain the clear way to go.
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS midsize SUV is brand's fastest SS ever
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina – Chevrolet's renowned SS performance badge makes a leap into the future ― and the really fast lane ― with the electric 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS midsize SUV. The SS badge has adorned legendary Chevrolets since it debuted on the 1961 Impala SS. Other bearers included Chevelle and Malibu SS vehicles in the muscle car era. Leading Chevy's charge into the EV era, the Blazer EV SS is the quickest vehicle in the line's history: 3.4 seconds 0-60 mph. The upgraded SUV also boasts a 303-mile range on a charge and a host of mechanical upgrades to handle the SS package's 615 horsepower and 650 pound feet of peak power. The Blazer EV SS is in dealerships now. Ford Mach-E GT: $52,495 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: $66,200 Kia EV6 GT: $61,600 Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition: $70,200 Tesla Y Performance: $51,490 Source: Free Press research, Edmunds. Prices exclude import tariffs and destination charges. LT: $44,600 RS: $49,900 SS: $60,600 Source: Edmunds Prices exclude new import tariffsand $1,495 destination charge. I recently experienced the Blazer SS on roads ranging from the 10/10s Motor Club private track in the shadow of Charlotte Motor Speedway to the backroads and hills around Kannapolis, where pennants hanging from light poles, a park statue and more honor favorite son and professional fast-Chevy wheelman Dale Earnhardt. The Blazer SS is fast, easy to drive, comfortable, roomy and practical ― at a price that compares very favorably to other high-performance electric SUVs. The steering ― a faster ratio than lesser Blazer EVs ― and suspension ― stiffer roll bars and springs ― deliver responsive handling in quick maneuvers. Front Brembo brake calipers combine with well-tuned one-pedal driving for good stopping power that's easy to modulate. Selectable driving modes include Wide Open Watts ― you're going to make me say "WOW Mode," aren't you? ― that raises output 100 hp and 200 pound-feet of torque from "normal" mode's already admirable 515 hp and 450 pound-feet. Competitive mode, a subset of the Z-mode performance setting, reduces traction control and tunes power delivery and brakes for maximum grip on fast, twisty tracks. Supportive sport seats feature contrast stitching including a signature 'Argon Orange' that extends to bright seat belts. 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds 11.9-second 1.4 mile at 115 mph Up to 615 hp and 650 pound-feet of torque Full-time all-wheel drive Brembo front brake calipers Customizable drive modes 22-inch all-season Michelin or summer Continental tires Faster steering ratio 102 kWh battery Up to 190 kW charging speed Mew inverter materials and magnet construction dissipate heat to boost range. Launch mode Available video YouTube and Peacock streaming during charging More: 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S EV: Tech, value, power make it a top luxury SUV, but no off-roader More: Honda's $1B Ohio EV hub has an assembly line other automakers will want to see The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS leaves almost nothing to be desired if you want a high-performance electric SUV. It looks great, thanks to eye-catching unique orange or blue colors, a black roof, unique rocker panels and bronze Brembo front brake calipers. There's plenty of room for people and cargo, and more power than any owner's ever likely to need. The big battery makes it a heavy vehicle ― Chevy doesn't reveal its curb weight, never a good sign ― but capable tires, steering and suspension upgrades compensate for that mass in enthusiastic driving. All-wheel drive five-seat midsize electric performance SUV Base price: $60,600 (All prices exclude import tariffs and $1,450 destination charge) On sale now Price as tested: $60,995 Power: One electric motor on each axle Output: 515 hp; 450 pound-feet of torque in normal modes; 615 hp, 650 pound-feet in Wide Open Watts mode Transmission: Single-speed direct drive Battery: 102 kWh lithium-ion EPA estimated range on a charge: 303 miles Maximum charging speed: 190 kW DC; 11.5 kW 240v AC Charging time: 78 miles in 10 minutes w/190kW DC; about nine hours @ 240v. Wheelbase: 121.8 inches Length: 192.6 inches Width: 78 inches (86.5 including mirrors) Height: 64.8 inches Ground clearance: 7.5 inches Passenger volume: 104 cubic feet (estimated) Cargo volume: 25.8 cubic feet behind rear seat; 59.8 rear seat folded (25.5/59.1 without sunroof) Curb weight: NA Assembled in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS midsize SUV is brand's fastest SS ever
