Over the past few weeks, reviews started pouring in for Chevrolet’s Equinox EV. Reviewers have been rightly enthusiastic about the brand’s newest EV. The model’s release represents a real turning point for GM’s Ultium platform following nearly two years of battery production complications.
The Equinox EV brings affordability and high-volume production after two years of up-market products like the Cadillac Lyriq and Hummer EV. Naturally, many excited buyers took to the Chevrolet website to build their vehicles as soon as order books were open.
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The Equinox EV is an important car for GM, and America
With a price of around $35,000 after tax incentives—and soon less with a base LT model—the Equinox EV is one of the most affordable ways to go electric in the U.S. It’s also expected to be a key sales driver for General Motors’ electric effort, which had several quality and production headaches in 2023.
But anyone following the model since its initial announcement in 2022 probably noticed that several promised features were missing in action. Those include:
- Available 19.2 kW Level 2 (AC) charging module
- Available Head-Up Display
- Rear Camera Mirror
- Available Bose audio system
- Wireless Charging Pad
These options were all slated for the 3RS trim, with a few appearing on lower trims as well. Even as more trims became available, these features were still missing. Things didn’t look good after Chevy released an Equinox EV trim breakdown in May that contained no acknowledgment of these features.
Many buyers seemed especially frustrated at the missing wireless phone charger; several owners have been looking into aftermarket options for that feature in particular. So we reached out to Chevy for clarification on the reason for these changes. And we have good news to report: all but one of these features will be arriving on specific Equinox EV trims “this calendar year,” a GM spokesperson told InsideEVs.
However, in an effort to streamline the launch of Chevy’s newest electric crossover, the Bose audio system has been dropped. This is disappointing to hear since Bose systems have been a staple across Chevy’s lineup, including as options for the Bolt EV and EUV. There are currently no plans for Bose to return to the Equinox EV, but if this changes we will be sure to let you know.
Did you hold off on ordering due to these missing features? Unless you’re a Bose audiophile, keep an eye out for these new additions later this year. If you’ve already received your Equinox EV, let us know your initial impressions in the comments below.
Gallery: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV: First Drive, May 2024 Detroit
Chevrolet Equinox EV Is Missing Key Features, But Most Are Coming This Year
The Chevrolet Equinox EV has generated a lot of excitement since its release, offering consumers a practical and eco-friendly option in the increasingly popular electric vehicle market. However, some early reviews have noted that the vehicle is missing key features that are considered standard in other electric vehicles. Despite this initial setback, Chevrolet has assured customers that most of these missing features will be added to the Equinox EV lineup by the end of the year.
One of the most notable missing features in the Equinox EV is the lack of fast-charging capability. While some electric vehicles on the market can be charged up to 80% in as little as 30 minutes at a DC fast-charging station, the Equinox EV currently only supports Level 2 charging, which can take several hours to fully charge the battery. This limitation has led to criticism from some consumers who see fast-charging as a necessity for long-distance travel.
Another missing feature in the Equinox EV is the absence of a dedicated app for remote vehicle controls, such as preheating or cooling the interior, checking the battery status, or locating the vehicle in a crowded parking lot. Many electric vehicle owners rely on these apps for convenience and peace of mind, and it is considered a standard feature in most modern EVs.
Despite these missing features, Chevrolet has promised that they are working on updates that will address these concerns. The company plans to roll out a software update later this year that will enable fast-charging capability in the Equinox EV, allowing owners to take advantage of the growing network of DC fast-charging stations across the country. Additionally, Chevrolet is developing a dedicated app for the Equinox EV that will provide users with remote vehicle controls and other advanced features.
In conclusion, while the Chevrolet Equinox EV may currently be missing key features that are considered standard in other electric vehicles, consumers can expect these features to be added to the lineup by the end of the year. As Chevrolet continues to expand and improve its electric vehicle offerings, the Equinox EV is expected to become an even more competitive option in the rapidly evolving EV market.