Chevy Axes Entry-Level Blazer EV Trim for 2024 Model Year
A recent report has confirmed that the entry-level trim of the Blazer EV will no longer be available for the 2024 model year. This decision by General Motors marks the end of any hope for a more affordable version of the Mexican-built Blazer EV, which was initially announced with a price tag of around $45,000.
Instead, customers visiting Chevy showrooms this autumn will be faced with a starting price of $56,715 for the 2LT trim with all-wheel drive. The RS all-wheel drive model, priced at $60,215, is set to be launched this summer. While there are plans for a two-wheel drive 2LT trim next year, its price has not yet been disclosed. Considering the usual price premiums for all-wheel drive in both traditional internal combustion engine vehicles and electric vehicles, it is expected that the two-wheel drive 2LT trim will be priced above $50,000.
According to company officials, these pricing decisions were made to prevent the Blazer EV from overlapping with the Equinox EV in terms of price. By positioning the Blazer EV as a more premium offering, Chevy hopes to avoid any potential competition between the two models. If trims like Premier or High Country are added to the Equinox EV, its price could easily exceed $50,000 after adding options.
While it is within an automaker’s rights to reposition trim levels, shifting the Blazer EV further upmarket in terms of price does come with risks, especially with the affordable Bolt set to disappear next year. Although there are plans for the Bolt’s return, no timeline has been provided for its concept unveiling or release.
Chevy has been promoting a starting price of around $30,000 for the base Equinox EV 1LT. To effectively expand their market share in the electric vehicle space, Chevy will need to come close to this price point. It remains to be seen how the Equinox planners will handle the 1LT trim.
This decision by Chevy to eliminate the entry-level trim of the Blazer EV raises questions about the brand’s strategy in the electric vehicle market. While it is understandable that automakers want to position their vehicles at higher price points to maximize profits, it is important to consider the affordability factor. With the increasing demand for electric vehicles and the government’s push for electrification, offering more affordable options could help attract a wider range of buyers.
Chevy’s move to eliminate the entry-level trim of the Blazer EV also highlights the challenges automakers face in pricing their electric vehicles. The cost of batteries and other components necessary for electric vehicles remains high, making it difficult to offer competitive prices. However, as technology advances and economies of scale are achieved, it is expected that the prices of electric vehicles will gradually decrease.
In conclusion, Chevy’s decision to remove the entry-level trim of the Blazer EV for the 2024 model year indicates a shift towards a more premium positioning for the model. While this may help prevent overlap with other Chevy electric vehicles, it also raises concerns about affordability and market share. As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, automakers will need to find a balance between pricing and profitability to stay competitive in this rapidly evolving market.
