More drivers are switching from conventional gas-burning cars to EVs every year, and Chevrolet is doing a great job of keeping up with their changing demands. Let’s look at the top EVs found at your local Chevy dealer.

The Equinox EV Is Capable and Affordable

The Chevrolet Equinox EV is one of America’s most affordable EV SUVs. With 319 miles of range and speedy DC fast-charging times, it offers a fantastic value to drivers shopping on a budget.

The Equinox EV features GM’s innovative new battery platform, which allows it to add around 70 miles of range in just ten minutes on a fast charger. The EV SUV has 57.2 cu ft of flexible cargo space and comfortable seating for up to five people.

Drivers who don’t mind spending extra money can use an impressive range of available features, from Super Cruise to front and rear lighting animations. Customizable ambient lighting, heated front seats, and flush door handles round out your options further.

The Blazer EV Offers Top Performance and Style

Larger than the Equinox EV, the Blazer EV is a midsize SUV that offers maximum performance. With an EPA-estimated range of 324 miles, the Blazer EV can really go the distance. One Pedal Driving and Regen on Demand provides the best range for longer drives.

Inside the Blazer EV, drivers will find a standard 11-inch diagonal driver information screen, a 17.7-inch diagonal display screen, and wireless charging. Google built-in compatibility makes it easy to access apps directly from the center display.

Every Blazer EV comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist, so drivers can have the peace of mind of knowing their families will be protected. From automatic e-braking to lane keep assist, the suite of driver assistance features makes piloting this EV a breeze.

The Silverado EV Gets the Job Done Right

The Silverado EV is one of the most impressive EV pickups on the market. With a GM-estimated range of up to 460 miles and up to 12,500 lbs of max available towing, it’s more than capable of putting in a good day’s work.

Drivers looking for impressive power can enable Wide Open Watts to harness up to 760 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque. Those more interested in maneuverability often cite Sidewinder as their favorite feature of the Silverado EV, as it enables the truck to move diagonally at low speeds.
The Silverado EV is more than just an impressive EV pickup truck. Drivers who invest in a GM Energy PowerShot Charger and Vehicle-to-Home Enablement Kit can also use their trucks to power their homes during blackouts for up to 21 days of reduced energy use.

Find the Best EV for Your Lifestyle

With three excellent options for electric vehicles, drivers have no trouble finding what they need at the Chevy dealer. The Equinox EV and Blazer EV are excellent family SUVs, while the Silverado EV is one of America’s most impressive electric trucks. There’s something for everyone in Chevrolet’s electric vehicle lineup.

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The Ford Mustang Mach-E – Ready for Fun

Ford drivers have a great option for an EV. The Mustang Mach-E is great in any form, but the Premium or the GT will take your driving to new heights. The Mach-E offers the perfect blend of power and style, but get behind the wheel of the GT, and you’ll experience up to 480 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque from the two electric motors.
Inside, a 15.5-inch touchscreen puts all your infotainment at your fingertips and a large panoramic glass roof lets in lots of natural light.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Well Rounded Performance

The latest Ioniq 5 has the comfortable cabin you want for an everyday driver, impressive range to help alleviate any range anxiety, and it’s got the power you want. There’s something for everyone when it comes to powertrains. A single motor setup is perfect for commuting, but if you like swift acceleration the dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive makes passing other vehicles more fun and effortless.

Kia Sportage PHEV X-Line – A Combination of Style and Substance

The Kia Sportage PHEV X-Line is the plug-in hybrid for drivers who need some versatility in their vehicle but want to look good driving it. Power comes from an electric motor and a gas engine, giving you the best of both worlds. Drive up to 35 miles on pure electric power before the gas engine needs to kick in. All-wheel drive comes standard, so you always have plenty of traction.
Inside, everyone has a comfortable place to sit, and the X-Line has dual-zone automatic climate control, navigation, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for syncing your phone.

Chevy Blazer EV – Sharp Looks and Power to Back them Up

The Chevrolet Blazer EV has a lot to offer. It’s a sleek-looking little SUV with options galore. You can get this EV with rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Power comes from one or two electric motors, and horsepower ranges from 225 to 615 if you want to splurge on the top-level SS. This Blazer EV comes standard with all-wheel drive and uses regenerative braking.
The RS with its dual motor will zip to 60 mph in just six seconds, but if range is your priority, take a look at the rear-wheel drive version. It can go up to 334 miles before you need to stop and charge the battery.
Is it your time to buy an electric vehicle? Now just may be the best time to get one.

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The Latest Battery Tech Helping Boost Range

The Ioniq 9 is a large SUV, but this doesn’t stop it from cruising long distances without needing to recharge the battery. Not only does it have a large battery, but it has new battery tech to give it longer driving range. The 110.3 kWh battery has an estimated range of 335 miles.
It will have the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port straight from the factory, allowing drivers to charge up at Tesla’s Supercharging network.

Choose Your Performance

It’s not surprising that the Ioniq 9 shares many of its mechanical bits with the Kia EV9. It will be available with three different motor configurations. It starts with rear-wheel drive and a long-range battery and a single motor that develops 215 horsepower.
If you want all-wheel drive, you can add another motor to the front axle and keep the long-range battery to bump horsepower to 309.
Performance all-wheel drive models switch out the standard motors for two more powerful motors. This setup is the quickest of the options. Press on the accelerator and you’ll get to 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds. You can reduce this to 4.9 seconds if you opt for the 21-inch wheels.

Let’s Take a Look Inside

Is soon as you get inside the Ioniq 9 you’ll see why this SUV is a step above any other three-row SUV on the market. The front seats are newly designed. Hyundai calls them Relaxation Seats because they feature dynamic massage.
But it’s not just the front seat passengers who get the royal treatment. The second-row passengers in the captain’s chairs can swivel to face their friends in the back, and everyone has plenty of head and legroom: even if you’re sitting in the third row.

Innovative Technology for Fun and Info

Hyundai simplifies your driving and riding experience with user-friendly technology. A panoramic curved display stretches across the dash, featuring a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. You’ll have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for syncing your phone to the touchscreen, and wireless charging to make it easy to keep your phone fully charged. When it’s time to turn up the volume, the available 14-speaker Bose stereo will turn your drive into a rolling concert.

Safety Is Still a Priority

When you shop for a vehicle at a Hyundai dealership, you know you’ll be getting a vehicle with the latest safety technology. The Ioniq 9 has the latest advanced driver aids from pedestrian detection to lane-departure warning, forward avoidance assist, and intelligent speed limit assist.

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As electric vehicle adoption surges, one major concern remains—can the U.S. charging network keep pace? With more EVs hitting the road, the demand for reliable, fast, and accessible charging stations is skyrocketing. While federal and state initiatives aim to expand infrastructure, challenges like slow charger deployment, inconsistent coverage, and outdated grid capacity pose serious roadblocks. This article explores whether the current charging network is enough, what improvements are needed, and how this issue could impact EV ownership in the coming years.

An EV surge

Electric vehicles have become increasingly popular and more widespread in recent years. The increased demand for EVs means a greater need for more public charging stations and a much better electric grid that can handle greater capacity. There may be some serious roadblocks that will keep the number of EV owners from growing, causing automakers to rethink their investment into electric vehicles. How could these challenges impact the need for improvements in the coming years? Could we see more reliable, fast, and accessible charging systems in the future?

A Band-Aid Fix

Tesla came to the rescue, to some degree, of the charging infrastructure. Previously, only Tesla-branded vehicles could use the company’s Supercharging network, but once a deal was struck, many vehicles could use these charging stations. This meant drivers with NACS-compatible charging plugs could pull up at a Teal Supercharger and plug in. Tesla allowed access by updating the software in most stations, but non-Tesla vehicles still charged at slower speeds than Tesla models. Still, adding these charging stations increased the number of available public charging stations significantly, but this only provides a band-aid fix at best.

The original plan thwarted

When the decade began, President Joe Biden drafted Presidential Orders to increase the number of public charging stations to 500,000. This project, funded by the federal government, was a good start, but most experts could not have predicted the demand for EVs that would grow furiously over the next few years. As emissions regulations became stricter, more drivers began to choose EVs. Automakers have dumped billions of dollars into developing electric vehicles, and the need for more than one million charging stations has become evident. Unfortunately, the growth of this network has already hit another major roadblock.

A huge roadblock

The political climate in the United States is tenuous at best. Unfortunately, when one party succeeds another in the Oval Office, the work of the previous administration can sometimes be in jeopardy. This is exactly what happened beginning on January 20 of this year. Immediate orders were put in place when the newly elected official took office, and Joe Biden’s term was over. This mean the billions that had already been spent on the EV charging infrastructure would go to waste unless plans continued, but that wasn’t the order given.

Why the stoppage of EV charger growth?

When parties fundamentally disagree and are extremely opposed to each other, the country can sometimes suffer. Despite the growing demand for EVs, which should translate immediately to the need for more public charging stations, the latest administration paused billions of dollars that were already allocated to states to build fast electric car chargers. Some states halted work on Inauguration Day, but some continued on. Many of those have since stopped building chargers due to the stoppage of federal funding coming from the most recent orders of the White House.

The power grid could be problematic

Although the current EV climate has cooled, especially since January, it’s expected that nearly half of all vehicles sold in the U.S. by 2030 will be electric. This means half the drivers will switch from using fossil fuels to renewable electricity, but there might be a serious problem. The current electric grid isn’t likely capable of keeping up with the demand required to fuel this many EVs. The electric grid is an aging system that’s built for a world that uses fossil fuels for many things.

Some automakers have produced more band-aid solutions including using EVs as battery backups for the electric grid. Part of the issue is the grid isn’t made to store energy, only supply it at an on-demand basis. This electric grid needs to be updated with storage facilities to back up the on-demand portion.

The EV charging infrastructure might be in jeopardy of failing miserably thanks to much higher demand than originally expected, the halting of federal funds, and an aging electric grid. Can anything be done to save this part of the automotive industry?

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How Hub Motors Simplify an EV Powertrain

Donut Labs gets its name from the donut shape of the hub motor and the motors it makes are radial flux motors with more torque than average. Hub motors are a great way to simplify the powertrain of an EV model as there’s no need for gears or a driveshaft. However, previous versions of the hub motor have added unsprung weight and exposure to harsh conditions down by the wheels.

Because of this, hub motors have had reliability problems. However, Donut Labs claims this won’t be a problem with its motors. In fact, the company has dubbed them infinite motors because, when designed correctly, they should outlast the rest of the vehicle. According to the Donut Labs techs, a reliable hub motor is all about how it’s manufactured.

The goal is to achieve a repeatable and durable process with no coils or magnets getting in the way of motion. Donut Labs says its motors are difficult to destroy in any way besides a catastrophic crash.

Donut Labs Family of Five Motors

Recently, Donut Labs revealed its collection of five motors. The smallest motor is ideal for large drones, while the larger motors can be used in passenger cars and even semi-trucks. The company said each size has its own benefits. The larger motors offer more performance, while the smaller ones optimize affordability.

The revolutionary design could even unlock new industries, such as drones, which can lift shipping containers. The compact shape and lightweight design of the Donut Labs motors seem to have infinite possibilities. When might you see a Donut Labs motor at your local car dealer?

A good example is how it might work in a compact EV crossover. Donut Labs believes its motors could reduce the amount of parts in a powertrain by three-quarters. This would save weight and assembly time, and thus also reduce costs.

Golden Solution In Hub Motors

The first use of Donut Labs motors was in motorcycles. Industry experts have known for a long time that hub motors are the best solution to streamline EVs, but the weight has been a problem. Donut Labs appears to have the solution to make hub motors viable. A lot can change during the period when parts are tested and the motors are placed in vehicles.

However, if everything works out the way the company expects, it’s possible that EV models with Donut Lab motors might be available in a few years. The company has also fielded interest from other industries, including using the motors in washing machines and wind turbines.

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Under the Hood of the New EV Battery Study

A new study was recently done by scientists in the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center. This center is a joint venture between Stanford University’s Precourt Institute for Energy and the SLAC National Accelerator Lab.
They found that batteries used real-world conditions such as heavy traffic, short trips in the city, and even long highway trips lasted longer than the batteries that were originally tested in the lab. In the lab, they simulated use by creating a constant rate of discharge and then recharging.

What Did the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center Do?

The SLAC-Standford Battery Center conducted their test differently than the previous battery tests. They replicated real-world conditions and driving patterns by designing different discharge patterns based on real data. They tested 92 lithium-ion batteries for over two years using a variety of different scenarios such as electronic starting and stopping, to mimic real conditions.

What Did They Find?

Once batteries were being used out in real driving conditions, including long periods of being parked, they realized that the way they were testing the batteries in the lab was not a good way to predict the life expectancy. Other driving habits such as frequent acceleration, braking the charges the battery, and letting the battery rest for several hours such as overnight, helps them last up to 40 percent longer.

So What Does This Mean for EV Drivers?

What does this pleasant surprise mean for people who already drive electric vehicles or are looking into buying electric SUVs? It means that EV drivers could save a significant amount of money in the long run.
One of the things that was holding some car buyers back from choosing an EV over a gas vehicle was the idea that they would have to replace the battery, Now, they can feel more comfortable with the idea of an EV, knowing that the replacement is many years down the road. Batteries that last longer help reduce the overall cost of owning an EV.

What Affects Battery Life

EV batteries can last 10 or 20 years, but there are many things that can have an effect on how long they last. One of the biggest factors is battery chemistry. There are two main types of batteries found in EVs: lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride. Most EVs have lithium-ion batteries.
In addition to the type of battery, the environmental conditions can impact its lifespan. Extreme heat and cold can affect the chemical process. DC fast charging is another factor that can affect battery life. Frequent use is linked to faster degradation.

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How To Choose An Affordable EV

If you’re hoping to get into the EV game for a budget price, you do have a few options. You might just need an efficient secondary vehicle for driving around town and don’t want to spend a fortune on a replacement for your ICE vehicle. With this in mind, it’s usually adequate to have around 200 miles of range.

The prices for affordable EVs generally do not include any state or federal credits. It’s possible that if you qualify for any of these credits that you can reduce any new prices. Also, it’s worth considering a used EV as they depreciate faster than ICE vehicles in most cases.

Affordable EV Options Around $30,000

Although it’s no secret that EV models are still quite a bit more expensive than gas-powered models, there are still some fairly affordable EVs available. The target price range for affordable EVs is usually around or under $30,000. One of the lowest priced EVs available is the Chevy Bolt EV and EUV. The starting price is around $27,000. The EUV has a range of 247 miles and has more space than the EV.

Another top option for an affordable EV is the Nissan Leaf. It starts at around $29,280 and has a range between 149 and 212 miles, depending on the model. The Leaf has long been one of the most affordable EVs out there despite having a lower range than some rivals. It’s a good choice for those who need something economical to drive around town or as a secondary vehicle.

The Hyundai Kona Electric costs a bit more than the above two options at around $34,000. However, it does offer a good range, between 200 and 261 miles. The Kona Electric delivers a nice balance of range, features, and an affordable price tag.

Mid-Range EV Options Around $40,000

If you can move into the $40,000 range for EVs, you’ll have even more options to choose from. The Chevrolet Equinox EV is the electric version of Chevy’s popular compact crossover. It’s roomy with plenty of features, and starts at around $35,000. If you need something bigger, the VW ID 4 is a more spacious option for families, with a starting price of around $40,000.

Hyundai and Kia both have options in the $40,000 range with the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the Kia Niro EV. Both models are stylish and efficient, with plenty of features for the price. Tesla’s Model 3 checks in at around $40,000 for the base RWD model. At the higher end of the range is the Volvo EX30, with a starting price just under $45,000. This is Volvo’s cheapest EV.

It’s likely that EV prices will eventually get lower in the future, so it makes sense not to break the bank on something unduly expensive.

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Michigan: The Heart of American Automotive

Michigan’s identity is linked to the automotive industry, making it a key player in shaping national policies. As the birthplace of the Big Three, Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, Michigan has major political influence, with candidates often adjusting their platforms to address the needs of the state’s workforce and economy.

For a local Ford dealer, these policies can directly impact sales, manufacturing decisions, and incentives for electric vehicles (EVs). Presidential candidates frequently promise initiatives to protect and grow automotive jobs, and debates often center around subsidies for EV production, tariffs on imported vehicles, and investments in domestic manufacturing.

Michigan’s prominence in green energy discussions is also growing. Federal support for EV tax credits and charging infrastructure is not just a national issue but a local one, as Michigan workers stand to benefit from expanded production and innovation.

Ohio: A Manufacturing Powerhouse

Ohio, another swing state, plays a huge role in shaping automotive policies. With a strong tradition of manufacturing and assembly plants, Ohio’s economy heavily relies on the automotive sector. Policies that promote domestic production and discourage outsourcing are crucial to the state’s workforce.

Green energy policies are a growing priority in Ohio, especially as automakers shift toward EV production. A local Ford dealer in Ohio might see firsthand how incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles influence consumer decisions. Presidential candidates often use Ohio as a platform to discuss infrastructure investments, including charging stations, and how these initiatives will create jobs and modernize the industry.

Pennsylvania: Where Energy Meets Automotive

Pennsylvania’s role in automotive policy discussions often intersects with its energy resources. As a major producer of natural gas, the state straddles the line between traditional energy policies and the push for green energy. This duality makes Pennsylvania a powerful voice in debates about the future of EVs and renewable energy in the automotive industry.

For Pennsylvania’s Ford dealer locations, consumer interest in EVs depends not only on federal tax credits but also on the development of infrastructure like charging stations. Candidates frequently highlight plans to expand green energy initiatives in Pennsylvania, aiming to attract investments from automakers and drive job creation in the process.

Swing States Matter

Swing states like Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are major areas for the future of the U.S. automotive industry. The policies debated and enacted during elections shape everything from job creation to technological innovation. Whether it’s ensuring the success of a local Ford dealer or positioning the U.S. as a leader in EV production, the impact of these states extends far beyond their borders.

As presidential candidates fight for votes in swing states, the automotive industry remains a central topic of discussion. From promises of job security to investments in green energy, the policies shaped in Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania will continue to steer the future of American manufacturing and mobility.

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Bridging the Gap with Charging Adapters

To make Tesla Superchargers compatible with their vehicles, Mercedes-Benz will offer a specialized adapter for $185, available through dealerships starting in February. This adapter will allow current Mercedes EV owners to connect to Tesla’s North American Charging System (NACS) plugs. While some competitors faced delays in making adapters available, Mercedes aims to avoid the same pitfalls by offering early and clear access to the technology.

A Shift Towards NACS Integration

Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz plans to eliminate the need for adapters entirely. Starting with its 2024 production, the brand will include built-in NACS charging ports in all North American electric models. This aligns with an industry-wide shift as major automakers like Ford, General Motors, and Volvo also move toward integrating NACS into their EV lineups.

This direct access to Tesla’s Superchargers adds to the convenience of EV ownership. With charging times faster than many public alternatives, the network represents a major upgrade for those planning long trips or daily commutes.

The Current Mercedes-Benz EV Lineup

Mercedes-Benz already offers an excellent selection of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, appealing to a wide range of drivers. Here’s a look at some of the standout models:

• GLC and GLE Plug-in Hybrid SUVs: Ideal for drivers who want electric efficiency and long-range flexibility.
• EQB SUV: A compact but spacious SUV designed for urban and family use.
• EQE and EQS Sedans: Sleek and luxurious options for those who prioritize premium performance.
• EQS SUV and EQS Maybach: These top-tier SUVs offer unmatched comfort and cutting-edge technology.
• Electric G-Class: An all-electric version of the iconic G-Wagon, bringing off-road power to the EV world.

Expanding its EV charging capabilities helps Mercedes-Benz ensure that these models remain competitive in an evolving market.

What This Means for EV Owners

The inclusion of the Tesla Supercharger network is a game-changer for Mercedes-Benz drivers. The convenience of fast-charging infrastructure reduces range anxiety and makes road trips more feasible.

For current owners who don’t want to wait for built-in NACS compatibility, the adapter provides an immediate solution. Though some may not like the $185 price tag, it’s a small price to pay for access to one of the most extensive and reliable charging networks available.

Driving Toward a Fully Connected Future

As the EV market continues to grow, Mercedes-Benz’s partnership with Tesla’s Supercharger will make a real difference. Whether you’re exploring the latest models at a Mercedes-Benz dealership or planning a long-distance trip in your EQS SUV, the integration of NACS ports and access to Tesla’s Superchargers improves electric mobility. By prioritizing convenience and expanding charging access, Mercedes-Benz is ensuring its drivers stay charged.

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Electric vehicles aren’t brand new to the market and actually date back much further than you might expect. That said, it wasn’t until the last dozen years or so that EVs have become popular enough to require an infrastructure for recharging the batteries or the development of faster charging capabilities.

Here are some important things to know about EV charging that will help demystify the confusion surrounding these vehicles.

How many levels of charging are there?

Currently, there are three distinct levels of charging that can be used for most electric vehicles. In many cases, modern EVs won’t charge quickly or effectively using Level 1 charging, but its still part of the available charging network. Let’s take a look at all three charging levels to understand what they offer.

Level 1

The most basic form of EV charging is Level 1. This means using a regular household 120V outlet to charge your electric vehicle. This is the slowest way to charge any vehicle, but it is the most widely available and convenient way to replenish the batteries, especially if you only drive your vehicle a few times per week. The charging rate using a Level 1 plug is about two to four miles of additional range per hour. This is the least efficient way to charge your EV, but it could work for some drivers who don’t drive often.

Level 2

The most useful type of charging is what you can use at home. Level 2 charging utilizes a 240-volt outlet, which is the same power as your clothes dryer needs. In most cases, in order to effectively charge your EV at home, you need to have a Level 2 charging plug installed in your home that can be used when you need to replenish the batteries. Most automakers offer an included Level 2 charger with the purchase of an EV, but they don’t include installation of a new 240-volt plug that operates separately from your clothes dryer.

The movement toward electric vehicles is extremely dependent upon EV owners adding a Level 2 charging outlet to their homes. In general, a Level 2 charging system can replenish EV batteries overnight. You’ll need to consult an electrician to ensure your home’s electric panel can support your new EV charging setup.

You may also find Level 2 chargers in many public spaces, such as parking garages and parking lots. Other public chargers are Level 3, and you need to know the difference.

Level 3

Level 3 chargers are the quickest of all three systems and they are also known as DC fast-chargers. These chargers are extremely useful on long trips and make it possible to take EVs on road trips because of the fast charging time. The speed at which these chargers operate depends on the setup, which can add between 100 and 250 miles of additional range in 30-45 minutes. The higher voltage means you can’t charge to 100% of the battery’s capacity while attached to the Level 3 charger.

These DC fast chargers operate at as little as 50 kW and as much as 500 kW, depending on the EV and the charger. Once an EV battery reaches 80% of the full charge, a Level 3 charger changes and slows down considerably. This is done to prevent overheating and overcharging.

Most automakers advise charging only to 80% when using Level 2 and Level 3 chargers.

What about the connectors?

Most EVs come with different connectors that you can utilize based on the speed of the EV charging being done. Level 1 and Level 2 charging uses a standard round port, which is called a J1772 connector. There are a few different types of connectors being used for Level 3 charging, including CCS and NACS connectors. The NACS connector is becoming the standard across the industry.

Some EVs use the CHAdeMO connector, but this plug is becoming obsolete. Soon, the CCS will also be obsolete, and all EVs will utilize the same connector.

Is the infrastructure ready?

You’ve probably seen more EV Level 3 charging stations along your route, especially during road trips, but the infrastructure growth hasn’t kept up with the increased number of EVs on the road. Still, most electric vehicles charge at home using Level 2 chargers, which makes them useful for most driving needs. If you’re considering an electric vehicle, now you know a little more about how to charge it and the various types of charging available to you.

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