Envisioning America as a vehicle, it would resemble the GMC Hummer EV pickup truck.
Toyota C-HR review:
The Hummer EV, a startling paradox, stands as perhaps the most remarkable yet baffling vehicle I’ve ever handled. It synthesizes all of GM’s EV expertise into one gigantic, tremendously heavy, stunningly inefficient, laughably costly, but unbelievably remarkable and physics-defying package.
In theory, and in reality, the GMC Hummer EV has usurped the Ram 1500 TRX as the pinnacle of pickup trucks.
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of the GMC Hummer EV after a long weekend of intense use (WTF stands for Watts To Freedom, what were you thinking?), going to MN Cars & Coffee, shopping at Costco, and taking the children to the swimming pool.
GMC Hummer EV
Pro: Hummer EV makes electric trendy
No one boasts about a Chevrolet Bolt EV or Nissan Leaf, but the Hummer EV turned heads, even amongst those indifferent about cars or EVs. It effortlessly overshadowed a Ford GT and Lamborghini Aventador at MN C&C (Minnesota Cars & Coffee), possibly denting some pride. With T-tops, 35-inch Mud Terrain tires, and up to 15.9 inches of ground clearance, it mirrors a cartoon or a real-life Hot Wheels truck. It stirs up childhood joy, and yet the adult side ponders if it’s a bit excessive.
GMC Hummer EV
Con: Hummer EV has a voracious energy appetite
The colossal weight of the Hummer allows it to bypass EPA efficiency ratings. According to GM, the Hummer EV Edition 1 boasts a range of 329 miles, thanks to its massive 205-kwh battery pack. However, its size, not efficiency, is the contributing factor. Despite achieving an average of 1.6 mi/kwh over 164 miles of mixed suburban driving, it remains a glutton for energy in the EV world. The efficiency rating trails behind the F-150 Lightning, even in sub-zero temperatures. What can be expected from a 7-foot-wide, 9,000-pound behemoth gliding through the air on 35-inch Mud Terrain tires?
GMC Hummer EV
Pro: Hummer EV Defies Physics
The specifications form an extraordinary driving experience. Despite being heavier than most heavy-duty pickups, the Hummer EV’s three motors and 1,000 hp allow it to perform wheelies during testing. It blasts from 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds in WTF mode, producing a thrilling experience. Engaging WTF mode drops the suspension, vibrates the driver’s seat, and emits a cacophony of juvenile noises, attempting to mimic the sensation of a rocket launch. The rush of shifting weight and rising front end causes an adrenaline surge.
GMC Hummer EV
The Crab Walk feature uses the rear-wheel steering system, enabling the Hummer EV to traverse diagonally. This movement feels alien and slightly unsettling. The rear-wheel steering also allows a surprisingly tight turning circle of 37.1 feet. For comparison, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 crew cab short bed, 15.1 inches longer, needs 46.9 feet to perform a U-turn. However, the fast-turning rear end requires caution, especially when navigating an enclosed parking ramp.
GMC Hummer EV
Con: Hummer EV carries a hefty price tag
The Hummer EV Edition 1 I tested was a 2022 model, unchanged for 2023. It has a price tag of $110,295, including a $1,595 destination fee. This is $23,745 pricier than a Ram TRX and $23,295 more than a Rivian R1T. The Hummer competes most closely with the Rivan, and all these vehicles demonstrate comparable performance. However, the electric trucks might struggle with their weight when speeding off-road. Despite their impressive speed, none of them offer rear-wheel steering, 15.9 inches of ground clearance, or a Crab Walk feature like the Hummer.
GMC Hummer EV
Their interiors, however, are superior. The Hummer EV boasts an impressive 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 13.4-inch touchscreen with slick animations, yet the hard plastics feel subpar for its price bracket. The Rivian’s interior shows a significant advancement over this GMC in terms of materials and craftsmanship.
GMC Hummer EV
Pro: Hummer EV offers practical functionality
Need to change the volume in the Hummer EV? A knob has you covered. Need to alter the temperature, fan speed, or lock the differentials? Toggle switches are available for that. The Hummer EV, while ambitious, doesn’t compromise on basic functionality with its knobs, buttons, and toggles. Also, a multi-function tailgate with a built-in step makes accessing the high-set bed relatively easy.
GMC Hummer EV
Con: Hummer EV has software issues
The Hummer EV carries an extensive range of software. While the powertrain functioned flawlessly throughout the week, other parts of the vehicle had sporadic issues. The front trunk malfunctioned for about five hours, requiring manual operation. Various functions occasionally hung on loading, and at one point, the entire infotainment system crashed and rebooted.
GMC Hummer EV
The Hummer is back, as excessive, inefficient, and unnecessary as ever.
Yet, like history, it repeats its charm with its mind-blowing abilities and head-turning design. Perhaps this is the quintessential American way, going the extra mile to draw attention.
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2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1
Base price: $110,295 including $1,595 destination
Price as tested: $110,295
Powertrain: 1,000-hp three-motor powertrain, full-time four-wheel drive
EPA fuel economy: 329 miles of range (EPA-cycle according to GM)
The pros: Brings cool factor to EVs, bold design, performs amazing feats, retains basic functions for practicality.
The cons: Inefficient, exorbitantly priced, cheap feel, software glitches, overly indulgent in every aspect.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about GMC Hummer EV Review
What makes the GMC Hummer EV unique?
The GMC Hummer EV is a high-profile pickup truck that marries impressive power and classic Hummer design with electric vehicle technology. It features standout attributes such as T-tops, 35-inch Mud Terrain tires, and up to 15.9 inches of ground clearance. Additionally, it has a ‘Crab Walk’ feature that allows the vehicle to move diagonally and a Watts To Freedom (WTF) mode that enhances acceleration, providing an exhilarating driving experience.
Is the GMC Hummer EV energy-efficient?
No, the GMC Hummer EV is not particularly energy-efficient. Despite its large 205-kwh battery pack that provides a range of 329 miles, the vehicle is still a significant energy consumer. Its efficiency is lower than other electric vehicles such as the F-150 Lightning, largely due to its immense weight and large tires.
How does the GMC Hummer EV perform?
The Hummer EV’s performance is remarkable. Despite its heavyweight, it has 1,000 horsepower thanks to three motors and can go from 0-60 mph in 3 seconds using the WTF mode. Its ‘Crab Walk’ feature, which utilizes the rear-wheel steering system, allows the vehicle to drive diagonally.
What are the drawbacks of the GMC Hummer EV?
The GMC Hummer EV is expensive, with a base price of $110,295, including the destination fee. Its interior, featuring hard plastics, does not feel reflective of its price range. The vehicle is also notably energy-inefficient and has faced some software glitches during testing.
How user-friendly is the GMC Hummer EV?
The Hummer EV retains key functionality with knobs, buttons, and toggles for operations such as changing the volume, temperature, fan speed, or locking the differentials. Plus, it’s relatively easy to access the high-set bed thanks to a multi-function tailgate with a built-in fold-out step.
More about GMC Hummer EV Review
- GMC Hummer EV Official Page
- GMC Hummer EV Wikipedia
- Electric Vehicle Efficiency Comparisons
- Comparison of Electric Pickup Trucks
- EV Charging and Battery Guide
7 comments
Wow! Didn’t think Hummer would go electric. That’s some power they got there but the price, phew!
1,000 hp and 0-60 in 3 seconds? Now that’s some electrifying speed! Would love to test drive one of these bad boys.
It’s cool and all but that efficiency sucks. It’s the same old gas guzzler story with a new electric cover.
So you’re telling me it cost more than a Lamborghini and drinks power like a sailor…and people still wanna buy this? Capitalism at its finest.
That crab walk feature sounds insane! Can’t imagine driving diagonally, how cool is that?!
From a truck lovers perspective, they’ve nailed it on looks. That wide stance and big tires, just like a hot wheels model.
software glitches and a cheap interior for 110k, really GM? got some work to do.