Experience the Thrill: Chevy Blazer EV SS Conquers Mountain Climbing Challenges!

When planning an electric vehicle (EV) road trip, elevation plays a surprising role. Climbing mountains isn’t like cruising on flat roads. Even if you ascend and descend 3,000 feet, the effort isn’t the same. Just like hiking demands more energy on an uphill trek, EVs also need to work harder when tackling hills.

During climbs, EVs expend more energy, generating extra heat in the process. This inefficiency can be stark. For instance, in a recent test of the Chevy Blazer EV SS, the vehicle struggled at high altitudes. Jen, the driver, took the Blazer from 5,000 to 12,000 feet—a 7,000-foot climb. The result? Only 1.8 miles per kilowatt-hour, significantly less than what a strong electric truck would achieve on flat ground. Despite its impressive 303-mile EPA range, the Blazer used 36% of its battery after only 73 miles of uphill driving.

Interestingly, even though both gas and electric vehicles face similar challenges when going uphill, EVs have an advantage. A traditional gas car would permanently lose that energy used for climbing. While descending, it would still consume fuel, unable to recapture any energy. In contrast, EVs can recover some energy during downhill drives through regenerative braking.

When Jen returned to her starting point, she had 56% of the battery left. Over 147 miles, the Blazer was rated for 303 miles, but it used only 44% of its battery. This performance exceeded expectations, showcasing that the physics of EVs allow them to conserve energy more effectively than gas-powered counterparts.

According to recent studies, the market for EVs continues to grow rapidly. As of 2022, electric car sales accounted for about 5% of the overall vehicle market, a sharp rise from previous years. Consumers are increasingly leaning toward EVs not just for environmental reasons but also for their value and efficiency.

In the end, the Chevy Blazer EV SS illustrates how technology is evolving to meet our driving needs. It may not be the sportiest option out there, but its blend of range and efficiency makes it a compelling choice for many drivers.

For more details, you can check out the original video here.

Learning about the practical challenges and advantages of EVs can help potential buyers make informed decisions. As electric vehicles gain traction, understanding their performance in various conditions will become increasingly important.

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