The Chevrolet Blazer EV and Tesla Model Y are exciting electric vehicles, but how do they compare? Both vehicles are all-electric midsize SUVs offering lots of unique features. Unlike the Tesla Model Y which has been produced since 2020, the Blazer EV is Chevrolet’s first stab at making a vehicle powered by electric motors. Chevrolet has slated the vehicle as a 2024 model, signaling the brand’s desire to finally compete in the EV segment. Aside from the Blazer EV, an electric Silverado has been prepped for a late 2023 release. This will be the first time where an EV wears the popular Silverado nameplate.
As the race to electrify transportation heats up, Chevrolet’s parent company, General Motors has also outlined plans for an electric variant of the Dodge Challenger and an SUV version of the GMC Hummer EV. Tesla isn't to be considered a slacker, with releases of its unconventional Cybertruck and Semi in the works.
When comparing two EVs, factors like trims, price, range, and technology are often used to determine which is a better buy for consumers. The Blazer EV comes with more trim options for prospective buyers as they can choose from the quartet of 1LT, 2LT, RS, and the premium trim, SS. In contrast, Tesla buyers are stuck choosing between either the Long Range or Performance variants of the Model Y. Regarding price, the Chevrolet Blazer EV is the most affordable, with the base trim (1LT) starting at $44,995. The Tesla Model Y’s Long Range model retails for $67,990, though the figure touted on the website is $59,440 and takes into consideration potential savings. The potential savings combines incentives and the amount buyers would have spent on gas for six years.
Range And Technology Compared
The Model Y’s range outmatches the range offered by the Blazer EV’s base trim. The 1LT offers up to 247 miles, while the Model Y's Long Range lives up to its name and brings a whopping 318 miles to the table. However, the range battle gets more interesting when the Blazer EV’s upper trim gets compared with the Model Y. The RS offers up to 320 miles, narrowly defeating the Model Y’s 318 miles of range. The premium trims for both brands come with a lesser range thanks to higher top speed and acceleration. The Model Y’s Performance trim is capable of being driven for around 303 miles. The Chevrolet Blazer EV’s SS trim maxes out at 290 miles, a few miles short of the Tesla. The Model Y features a 15-inch touchscreen, a few inches more than the Blazer EV’s 11 inches. The Model Y also comes with over-the-air software updates, which allow drivers to get the latest features and improvements to the EV’s functionality. The Blazer EV comes with a unique hands-free start system where drivers don't need to use keys to start the EV. All drivers need to do is enter the vehicle using their key fob and tap the brake for the Blazer EV to instantly come alive.
While The Blazer EV supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Model Y isn't built to support such integrations. However, a Tesla Android update has found a workaround. Concerning experience, Tesla is the clear winner since the automaker has always been in the business of developing vehicles that run on batteries. Although the Chevrolet Blazer EV is a newcomer to the scene, the vehicle employs General Motors’ fascinating battery technology program called Ultium. All GM EVs, subsidiaries included, will be built on this platform and support Level 2 and DC fast charging.