How many miles per gallon does a Chevy Silverado EV get?
Electric vehicles don’t use miles-per-gallon in the traditional sense. The Silverado EV is rated by the EPA in miles-per-gallon-equivalent (MPGe), and the combined MPGe varies by trim, wheel size, and drivetrain—roughly in the 60s to 70s MPGe depending on configuration.
This article breaks down what MPGe means, how EPA ratings apply to the Silverado EV, and what buyers should expect when comparing configurations. It also covers real-world considerations like range, charging, and how wheel choice can affect efficiency.
Understanding MPGe and why it matters
MPGe, or miles per gallon-equivalent, measures how far an electric vehicle can travel on the amount of energy equivalent to one gallon of gasoline. The EPA tests for MPGe under standardized conditions, but real-world results can vary with driving style, weather, terrain, and charging habits. For the Silverado EV, MPGe is the primary metric used to compare efficiency across trims and configurations.
EPA ratings by configuration
EPA efficiency for the Silverado EV depends on factors such as drivetrain (two-wheel drive vs. four-wheel drive), battery size, and wheel diameter. The following ranges reflect common configurations and the general trend that smaller wheels and rear-wheel-drive tend to improve MPGe, while larger wheels and all-wheel drive can reduce it. Exact ratings vary by model year and trim, so consult the EPA’s official data or Chevrolet’s spec sheets for a specific build.
- Smaller wheels and fewer drivetrain losses: typically higher MPGe, often landing in the mid-to-high 60s MPGe combined range for common trims.
- Larger wheels and 4WD configurations: tend to drop MPGe, with many setups in the mid-60s MPGe or lower combined depending on the wheel size.
- Two-wheel drive (2WD) versus four-wheel drive (4WD): 2WD variants usually show a modest efficiency advantage over 4WD in MPGe.
Note: These are broad tendencies. The exact EPA MPGe rating for a given Silverado EV depends on the year, trim, battery option, and wheel choice. For precise figures, check the EPA’s official ratings page and Chevrolet’s product pages for the specific configuration you’re considering.
Real-world range and charging considerations
MPGe is a useful benchmark, but real-world range depends on many variables. Energy usage in the Silverado EV can vary with speed, climate control use, payload, and terrain. When planning charging, consider both the EPA-rated MPGe and the estimated driving range under your typical conditions. Fast charging availability and home charging setup also influence how often you’ll need to refill and how you’ll manage trip planning.
How to compare configurations fairly
To compare different Silverado EV builds on an apples-to-apples basis, align them by drivetrain, wheel size, and battery option. Even small changes—like moving from 20-inch to 22-inch wheels—can change MPGe and real-world range. Always verify the exact EPA MPGe and range numbers for the precise configuration you’re evaluating.
What this means for buyers
For prospective buyers, the key takeaway is that the Silverado EV’s efficiency—and thus its cost per mile—depends on configuration. If you prioritize efficiency, look for smaller wheels and consider a 2WD setup where available. If you need maximum capability or styling with larger wheels, expect a trade-off in MPGe. Always pair MPGe with the expected real-world range to ensure the vehicle fits your daily needs and charging options.
Summary
The Chevy Silverado EV isn’t rated in traditional MPG. It uses MPGe, and the combined MPGe varies by trim, wheel size, and drivetrain. Generally, smaller wheels and 2WD configurations yield higher MPGe, while larger wheels and 4WD configurations can lower it. For precise figures, consult the EPA’s official MPGe ratings and Chevrolet’s specifications for the exact build you’re considering. Real-world range will depend on driving conditions and charging habits, so plan accordingly.
