Chevy Equinox EV Off-Roading Tips

As one of the year’s most highly anticipated electric vehicles (EVs), the Chevrolet Equinox EV has features that will make for a smooth and enjoyable ride, whether cruising the highway, driving around town, or heading off the beaten path. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the off-road capabilities of the Equinox EV and provide some helpful off-roading tips. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or just getting started, the Chevrolet Equinox EV is an all-electric SUV with something unique to offer discerning car buyers.

Chevrolet Equinox EV Overview

The 2024 Equinox EV is a compact SUV that provides a cheaper alternative to the more expensive electric vehicles, not just in the Chevy lineup but also in the crossover market. It’s part of Chevrolet’s initiative to exclusively offer zero-emission vehicles by 2035. Upon its release, the Equinox EV will be available in five trim levels. The 2RS will be the first to arrive in the fall of 2023, with the others to follow in the spring of 2024. Here’s a quick rundown of the five trims and their notable features:

• 1LT: This is the base trim, with an estimated MSRP of $30,000. Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard and is powered by a battery with an estimated range of 250 miles.  
• 2LT: Equinox EVs starting from this trim level and up include FWD and are estimated to have a range of up to 300 miles, thanks to the larger battery. The 2LT is also available in all-wheel drive (AWD) and features a heated steering wheel, as well as heated seats and mirrors.
• 2RS: Also available in either FWD or AWD, the 2RS features a sportier appearance. It comes with 20-inch dark-colored wheels and a black grille and fascia.
• 3LT: This model offers features such as reverse automatic braking and GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system. It also has heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, 21-inch aluminum wheels, and a larger, 17.7-inch touch-screen display.
• 3RS: This is similar to the 2RS in appearance but comes with upgraded and additional features. Some of these include 21-inch dark aero wheels, Super Cruise, and a 19.2 kW Level 2 (AC) charging module.  

Several aspects of the latest Equinox EV should be noted. First, while it’s longer than its gas-powered counterpart, it offers less cargo space because of its lower roofline. Second, it’s smaller than the Blazer EV, which shares a platform with the Equinox EV. And third, it doesn’t have a trunk or an under-the-hood storage space, a common feature of many electric vehicles.

What Makes the Chevrolet Equinox EV a Capable Off-Road Vehicle?

While it may be true that some EVs aren’t built for off-roading, the Chevrolet Equinox EV is an exception. Here are some of the features that allow it to be an off-road vehicle:

All-Wheel-Drive System

AWD is particularly beneficial for driving on rough terrain because it provides better traction and stability than a two-wheel-drive system. When one wheel loses traction, the other wheels can compensate and keep the vehicle moving forward. AWD also helps distribute weight more evenly across the vehicle, preventing it from getting stuck in mud, sand, or snow. In addition, AWD vehicles tend to have higher ground clearance, allowing them to navigate over obstacles more easily. Although the base 1LT trim of the Chevrolet Equinox EV isn’t available with AWD, the other trim levels are.

Compact Size

The relatively small size of the Equinox EV adds to its agility and handling off-road. It allows you to maneuver and park in tight spaces, navigate through narrow trails and tight turns, avoid obstacles, and stay on course more easily. And because it’s compact, the Equinox EV can respond more quickly to changes in terrain, allowing you to maintain better control over the vehicle.

Aerodynamic Body

The Equinox EV’s aerodynamic design helps reduce wind resistance and drag, improving fuel efficiency. By minimizing wind resistance, the Equinox EV is able to maintain a more consistent speed and use less energy. This allows it to travel further on a single charge.

In addition to improving fuel efficiency, the aerodynamic shape of the Equinox EV also contributes to its stability off-road. The vehicle’s sleek design helps to reduce turbulence and improve airflow around the body, which in turn reduces lift and improves traction. This means the Equinox EV is less likely to skid or lose control when driving on uneven terrain or in adverse weather conditions.

Tips for Off-Roading With the Equinox EV

While the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV has yet to be released to the public, there are some off-roading tips you can keep in mind and implement once you get your hands on it. These also apply to other EVs and will allow you to improve your off-roading experience. These include:

• Plan your route carefully: Before heading out, make sure you have a clear idea of where you’re going and what the terrain will be like. This will help you avoid getting stuck or damaging your vehicle.
• Check your battery level: Off-roading can be more demanding on your vehicle’s battery than regular driving, so ensuring you have enough charge to complete your trip is important. If you’re unsure how far your vehicle can go on a single charge, do some research or consult your owner’s manual.
• Use regenerative braking: Many electric vehicles and SUVs come equipped with regenerative braking systems, which can help extend your vehicle’s range by converting some of the energy lost during braking back into usable electricity.
• Adjust your driving style: Off-roading requires a different driving style than regular road driving. Take it slow and steady, and avoid sudden movements, such as jerky acceleration or braking.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Make sure you have a first aid kit, a spare tire, and any other necessary equipment in case of an emergency.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV is an excellent choice for an electric SUV. It’s a reliable vehicle that can take on various terrains and get you where you need to go safely and comfortably. If you have any questions about this vehicle, contact us at Koons White Marsh Chevrolet or visit our dealership in Maryland. We offer a wide selection of Chevrolet vehicles, and we’re happy to provide more information about the Chevrolet Equinox EV or any other models.

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