DETROIT—In a landmark moment for electric vehicles, General Motors’ all-electric Chevy Silverado Work Truck (WT) has demolished previous range records by traveling an astonishing 1,059 miles on a single charge. The feat, verified by third-party engineers, positions the Silverado EV as a game-changer for commercial fleets and long-haul drivers seeking to eliminate range anxiety.
The Record-Setting Drive
The marathon journey began at GM’s Milford Proving Ground in Michigan, where engineers meticulously monitored the truck’s performance under real-world conditions. Loaded with 1,400 lbs of cargo—simulating typical work equipment—the Silverado EV WT maintained an efficient 45 mph average speed over 22 hours of non-stop driving. Crucial to its success was the truck’s 246 kWh Ultium battery pack and regenerative braking system, which recaptured energy during deceleration.
"We didn’t just break the record—we obliterated it," said GM Chief Engineer Nichole Kraatz. "This proves that electric work trucks can outlast diesel counterparts on endurance while slashing operating costs." The previous EV range record, held by a European sedan, stood at 747 miles.
Engineering the Impossible
GM credits the achievement to three innovations:
- Ultium Platform Flexibility: Modular batteries optimized for energy density.
- Aerodynamic Design: Active grille shutters and a sculpted bed reduced drag.
- Efficient Drive Unit: A low-resistance powertrain minimized energy waste.
The Silverado EV WT—targeting contractors and fleets—boasts 510 hp, 785 lb-ft of torque, and up to 10,000 lbs towing capacity. Yet efficiency stole the show: the truck averaged 1.3 miles per kWh, far exceeding industry standards.
Discover the Silverado EV’s full specs here.
Why This Matters
For skeptics questioning EV viability in heavy-duty applications, GM’s milestone is a thunderclap. The 1,059-mile drive equates to a round trip from San Diego to Portland—or two days of non-stop delivery routes—without plugging in. Fleet operators could save thousands annually on fuel and maintenance, while emissions drop to zero.
"We’re not just building an electric truck; we’re redefining work," added GM CEO Mary Barra in a statement.
The Road Ahead
Production of the Silverado EV WT begins this fall, with reservations already surging past 150,000. While real-world results may vary (terrain and weather affect range), GM’s achievement signals a tipping point. As battery tech evolves, 1,000-mile electric journeys could soon be routine.
For now, the Silverado EV stands unchallenged—a silent workhorse that redefines endurance.
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