Category Archives: News

GM to Launch Lithium Manganese-Rich Batteries by 2028 in Partnership with LG

  • GM to begin commercial LMR battery production in the U.S. by 2028.

  • New chemistry targets lower costs and longer range with up to 400 miles (644 km) per charge.

  • GM and LG aim to localize EV battery supply chain and reduce reliance on cobalt.


General Motors plans to introduce a new battery chemistry for its electric trucks and SUVs that will support driving ranges of up to 400 miles (644 km). The automaker is collaborating with LG Energy Solution to develop lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic cells, with commercial production set to begin in the United States by 2028.

GM says the new cells are designed to be safer, denser, and less expensive than the high-nickel batteries currently used in its electric vehicles. The LMR chemistry replaces much of the cobalt content with manganese, which is more affordable and widely available.

The batteries will be produced at Ultium Cells, GM and LG’s joint venture. Preproduction is expected to begin in late 2027, and the final battery design will undergo validation at GM’s Battery Cell Development Center in Warren, Michigan, and LG’s battery development facility.

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Unlike cylindrical cells, the prismatic format allows the batteries to be packed flat, improving space efficiency and simplifying manufacturing. General Motors has developed approximately 300 full-size LMR prototypes as part of a process that began in 2015 at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center.

Current GM electric vehicles, such as the Chevrolet and Cadillac EVS, utilize high-nickel batteries that provide a range of approximately 300 to 320 miles (483 – 515 km). The new LMR cells are expected to extend that range to 400 miles while also contributing to lower vehicle costs.

Ford recently announced plans to adopt LMR batteries by 2030, giving GM a two-year head start if its 2028 target is met. Battery cost reductions are considered crucial to the broader adoption of electric vehicles. GM estimates that batteries account for 30 to 40% of an EV’s total cost and views LMR chemistry as a key factor in reducing that figure.

Global battery production is heavily concentrated in China, which accounts for over 70 % of worldwide lithium-ion battery output. GM executives say changing to manganese-rich batteries will also help localize the automaker’s supply chain and reduce exposure to geopolitical risks.

Despite their advantages, LMR batteries have historically faced challenges, including capacity loss and thermal degradation. GM engineers say they are working to address these risks and expect the new chemistry to perform on par with its first-generation high-nickel cells, even under extreme conditions.

Source: The Verge

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GM Recalls Nearly 50,000 Canadian Trucks and SUVs Over 6.2L V8 Engine Defect

  • Nearly 50,000 Canadian GM vehicles recalled for potential connecting rod and crankshaft defects.

  • Affected engines may lose propulsion or fail, increasing the risk of accidents and breakdowns.

  • Nearly 600,000 units have been recalled in the US for a grand total of over 720,000 worldwide.


General Motors is recalling 49,848 full-size pickups and SUVs in Canada due to a manufacturing defect in the 6.2L V8 L87 engine that can cause damage or failure.

The recall affects specific 2021–2024 models of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Tahoe, and Suburban; the GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL; and the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, all equipped with the 6.2L L87 engine. Vehicles powered by GM’s 5.3L V8, 2.7L turbo I4, or 3.0L diesel engines are not affected.

According to General Motors, the defect involves unspecified manufacturing issues with the engine’s connecting rods or crankshaft. These issues can cause propulsion loss and raise the risk of engine failure and accidents. The recall follows multiple lawsuits, investigations, and warranty replacements related to these engines.

GM will inspect affected vehicles to determine whether engine components meet specifications. Vehicles that pass inspection will receive a warranty extension and an oil and filter change using 0W-40 Mobil 1 Supercar oil, a higher-viscosity lubricant than the factory-specified 0W-20. The oil fill cap will also be changed to reflect the new specification. Vehicles that do not pass inspection will be repaired or receive an engine replacement.

In addition to the Canadian recall, GM has recalled approximately 336,756 SUVs and 260,874 pickups with the same engine in the United States.

The company has issued a stop-sale order for unsold affected vehicles in dealer inventory. These vehicles cannot be sold, demonstrated, or transferred until they pass inspection and receive the required service.

Transport Canada has assigned the recall number 2025-225. For more information, customers can contact GM customer service at 1-800-263-3777.

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2026 Chevrolet Corvette Gains Overhauled Interior, Enhanced Displays and Performance Tech

  • 2026 Corvette models add three digital screens and revised console for enhanced driver interaction and usability.

  • All trims feature updated infotainment with Google built-in, expanded Performance App, and improved data recorder tools.

  • New asymmetrical interior design and four colour themes offer broader personalization across Stingray, E-Ray, Z06, and ZR1.


General Motors has revealed a fully redesigned cabin and upgraded digital cockpit for the 2026 Corvette lineup, including Stingray, E-Ray, Z06, and ZR1 variants. The changes for the mid-engine eighth-generation Corvette include expanded screens, reconfigured controls, and new customization options.

2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet

The 2026 Chevrolet Corvette interior introduces a revised three-screen configuration to enhance driver engagement. The setup includes a 12.7-inch centre touchscreen, a 14-inch driver information centre, and a new 6.6-inch auxiliary display to the left of the steering wheel. Each screen offers configurable layouts and access to performance data. Select trims, including the ZR1, can be fitted with a carbon fibre cluster hood above the driver display to match other available carbon fibre elements.

All 2026 Corvettes feature a bespoke infotainment system built on Google’s in-vehicle platform, with voice-activated control over navigation, media, communication, and in-car features. OnStar-based services offer access to apps including Chrome, Prime Video, and GameSnacks, usable while parked.

2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet

The new auxiliary touchscreen provides dedicated space for trip tracking, Performance Traction Management, and propulsion metrics. The digital displays’ tour, Sport, and Track themes have been modernized, with drivers able to select a preferred layout or allow the system to adjust according to drive mode.

The Corvette Performance App, now available across the full lineup, consolidates key vehicle data into a single interface. Features include:

  • Configurable acceleration timers
  • G-force readings with historical data
  • Tire pressure and temperature status
  • Engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid temperatures
  • eAWD monitoring for E-Ray models, including front axle output and battery charge

The updated Performance Data Recorder features an enhanced user interface and larger screen integration. It provides real-time analytics, high-definition video recording, and playback tools, including speed trace visualization and performance tips based on driver behavior.

 

2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet

The new PTM Pro mode is added to all Corvette variants, allowing for track-focused driving by disabling stability and traction controls while preserving ABS and, for E-Ray, key front axle controls.

The centre console has been reengineered for improved ergonomics, relocating the drive mode selector to align with the gear shifter. In its previous location, a new wireless phone charging pad is now housed under a covered console section. A larger volume knob with a lit base improves visibility.

HVAC controls have moved below the centre display, opening space between occupants and allowing for a newly integrated passenger grab handle. A USB-C port has been added to the passenger side.

2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet

Corvette introduces its first asymmetrical interior layout in the 2026 model year. The new Adrenaline Red and Jet Black scheme visually separates the driver and passenger zones, and a mixed seating configuration allows customers to specify a race-inspired driver’s seat paired with a GT2 passenger seat.

Four additional interior themes debut across all models:

  • Sky Cool & Medium Ash Gray with Habanero accents
  • Santorini Blue
  • Very Dark Atmosphere (a chocolate brown tone with black and tan accents)
  • Ultimate Suede, featuring microfiber upholstery and colour-customizable stitching and seatbelts

The Ultimate Suede option brings suede microfiber to most interior surfaces, and customers may choose from accent colours such as Adrenaline Red, Santorini Blue, and Competition Yellow.

2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet

The ZR1’s ZTK package introduces the largest braking system ever installed on a production Corvette, including 10-piston front calipers, 6-piston rear calipers, and carbon ceramic rotors.

A new electrochromic roof option allows users to adjust roof glass tint to one of three settings—low, medium, or full—via a button press. For the E-Ray model, the Charge+ function has been relocated to the steering wheel below the Z Mode button for quicker access.

Exterior options are updated with a new asymmetrical centre stripe (Edge Red/Carbon Flash), standard body colour rocker panels for E-Ray, and optional blue brake calipers for Z06 and E-Ray. Two new exterior paint colours—Roswell Green Metallic and Blade Silver Metallic—will be available across the lineup.

The Corvette continues to be assembled at General Motors’ Bowling Green facility in Kentucky, using domestic and globally sourced components. In Canada, the Corvette has led luxury sports car sales for over five consecutive years, according to Chevrolet.

2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet
2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet
2026 Chevrolet Corvette | Photo: Chevrolet

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Cadillac Confirms 2026 OPTIQ-V, Could Share Blazer EV SS Powertrain

  • 2026 OPTIQ-V may adopt a “detuned” Blazer EV SS powertrain, or not.

  • Part of Cadillac’s fifth-generation V-Series lineup, designed for dynamic electric performance.

  • Aligns with GM’s EV strategy by leveraging Ultium platform and cross-brand powertrain sharing.


Cadillac has confirmed that the OPTIQ electric SUV will receive its own V-Series variant in 2026, marking its latest move to take on all would-be competition in the performance EV space. The OPTIQ-V will be part of Cadillac’s fifth generation of V-Series vehicles and is being positioned as a high-performance compact luxury SUV.

2026 Cadillac 2026 OPTIQ-V | Photo: Cadillac

Although Cadillac has not released technical specifications, the OPTIQ-V could very well inherit the Ultium-based powertrain used in the Chevrolet Blazer EV SS, although with a slightly reduced output. That powertrain produces 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of approximately 3.4 seconds using General Motors’ Wide Open Watts (WOW) mode. If these specifications are carried over, the OPTIQ-V would stand as one of the most powerful EVs in its class. Caddy’s done some crazy things over the last few years – here’s hoping they keep it up.

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Cadillac stated the OPTIQ-V was engineered to emphasize precision handling, responsive steering, and dynamic suspension tuning. These performance characteristics are consistent with all models so far produced for the V-Series, which traditionally applies sport-focused modifications to Cadillac models.

The OPTIQ-V is expected to compete in the compact luxury EV market segment upon its Canadian release in 2026.

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Buick Reveals ELECTRA GS Concept, Showcasing EV Future with Myth-Inspired Styling

  • Buick reveals ELECTRA GS concept with a 5,300 mm body and Kinetic Sculpture design language.

  • Interior features include AR HUD, ultra-wide display, and materials like leather, metal, and woven fabric.

  • Concept highlights Chinese design influence as GM expands EV presence in global premium markets.


Buick has revealed the sublime ELECTRA GS concept vehicle, showcasing a new design direction and electric vehicle platform as part of its transition to new energy vehicles. Developed at the GM China Advanced Design Center, the concept introduces Buick’s “Kinetic Sculpture” design language, which combines sculptural form with technological integration.

The ELECTRA GS, inspired by the mythical centaur, combines physical dynamism with design intelligence. The concept car is 5,300 mm long and has a wheelbase of 3,200 mm. Its low profile, wide stance, and 23-inch wheels establish a commanding presence. The front end integrates hidden “Reverse Checkmark” lighting elements and a contoured shark-nose shape. At the rear, floating roof rails evolve into structural buttresses, merging with a panoramic glass roof and spoiler.

The interior features a flat floor made possible by the vehicle’s dedicated electric platform. Four individual seats are arranged in a cabin designed as a luxury sanctuary, using premium leather, metal, and woven materials. A driver-centric cockpit incorporates an augmented reality head-up display and streamlined controls. Passengers can access a 16.3-inch ultra-wide digital screen.

Designed by a new generation of stylists at GM’s Shanghai-based studio, the ELECTRA GS is a design statement that reflects Buick’s evolving global identity. The concept demonstrates the role of Chinese creativity in connecting with technologically engaged, culturally aware consumers worldwide.

Since entering the Chinese market in 1998 through the SAIC-GM joint venture, Buick has sold more than 10 million vehicles. The ELECTRA GS provides a conceptual preview of Buick’s approach to luxury electric mobility in both the Chinese and North American markets.

The post Buick Reveals ELECTRA GS Concept, Showcasing EV Future with Myth-Inspired Styling appeared first on Motor Illustrated.

Buick Envista, Envision, Encore GX Face Thousands in Added Costs from New U.S. Tariffs

  • Buick’s three top-selling SUVs face tariffs of up to 47.5% on U.S. imports.

  • GM may halt imports of 450,000 vehicles from China and Korea due to rising costs.

  • Buick’s market gains in the U.S. risk reversal amid higher sticker prices and shrinking supply.


U.S. tariffs on vehicles imported from China and South Korea are expected to seriously undercut Buick’s recent sales growth, with its top-selling models now subject to new levies that could increase retail prices by thousands of dollars.

General Motors’ Buick division, which had recorded a 39% sales increase in the first quarter of 2025 in the U.S., is especially vulnerable due to its reliance on overseas manufacturing. The Envista and Encore GX are produced in South Korea, while the Envision SUV is assembled in China. According to a Barclays analysis, the South Korean imports now face a 27.5% tariff, while the Envision is subject to a combined 47.5% tariff due to overlapping trade penalties and import duties.

The price hikes threaten Buick’s upward trajectory in the U.S. market. The company has not issued a public comment on the potential impact, but industry analysts point to the affordability of Buick’s current lineup as a key factor behind its recent momentum.

Barclays warned in a client note on April 15 that the new tariffs could force General Motors to stop importing about 450,000 vehicles annually from China and South Korea. It also cut GM’s 2025 EBIT estimates by 40%, citing an estimated gross tariff impact of $9.5 billion. Ford Motor faces a projected 60% EBIT reduction and a $7 billion tariff cost, due in part to its China-made Lincoln Nautilus.

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Industry-wide, the tariffs are expected to raise prices of affected models by 10–15% and could drive a 5% increase across the broader vehicle market, according to Cox Automotive. This may hit entry-level vehicles especially hard, including the Buick Envista and Chevrolet Trax, which are among the most affordable SUVs available.

Despite current challenges, Buick has seen growth in market share from 0.8% in 2022 to 1.6% in the first quarter of 2025. The refreshed Envision have driven much of that expansion. Dealers have reported strong demand and inventory levels remain healthy, with a 53-day supply on average, according to Edmunds.

However, Buick’s outlook is less stable globally. The brand’s sales in China—a major historical market—have declined by 65% since 2020 amid growing competition from domestic EV manufacturers. Sam Abuelsamid, vice president at Telemetry, said the combination of tariff pressures in the U.S. and market erosion in China poses a “risk to the survival of the brand.”

Though Buick sales were up by 44.1% in Q1 in Canada, a dramatic decline in imports and sales in the U.S. could impact availability here. Buick Canada’s 22,938 sales for all of 2024 pale compared to Buick USA’s 61,822 units delivered in Q1 alone this year. Importing a fraction of the planned Envista, Encore GX, and Envision may prove too costly for the Canadian market alone.

Source: Reuters

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Canada To Offer Tariff Exemptions for Automakers Maintaining Domestic Production

  • Ottawa exempts automakers from tariffs if Canadian production levels are maintained or increased.

  • U.S. tariffs prompt Canadian countermeasures: CUSMA vehicle imports partially excluded from duties.

  • Federal relief includes a six-month tariff holiday and loan support for affected Canadian companies.


The federal government announced April 15 that automakers that continue producing vehicles in Canada will receive an exemption from federal countermeasure tariffs. This is part of its response to new U.S. import duties on automobiles.

Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said companies can import a limited number of U.S.-built vehicles without paying Canadian retaliatory tariffs, provided the vehicles meet Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) standards. The exemption applies only to automakers that maintain or increase Canadian production and investment levels.

The federal government introduced the measure in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision earlier this month to impose a 25 % tariff on all imported vehicles. Trump included a partial exemption under CUSMA for vehicles assembled within North America. Ottawa responded with similar tariffs targeting U.S.-assembled vehicles destined for the Canadian market.

Auto Parts Tariffs May Be Delayed as Trump Considers Limited Exemptions

Under the new Canadian policy, automakers that scaled back production in Canada could see reduced tariff-free import allowances. In addition, Champagne announced a six-month tariff holiday for goods imported from the U.S. and used in domestic manufacturing, health care, and public safety sectors.

Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the issue during a campaign stop in Quebec, calling the North American auto sector one of the most integrated industrial systems globally. “President Trump’s tariffs are an attempt in some degree to pull apart that integration and the benefits that come from that integration,” Carney said.

Carney also indicated that tariffs on U.S. auto parts, scheduled to take effect by May 3, may be reconsidered. He said he has been discussing with senior executives from Canadian and international automakers.

Honda Canada Addresses Production Change Rumours

Automakers, including Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, have urged the Trump administration to reconsider the duties. Industry analysts say they are likely to increase costs and disrupt cross-border supply chains. On April 14, Trump suggested that a delay or additional exemptions may be forthcoming.

To support Canadian businesses affected by the dispute, Ottawa announced a range of relief measures, including a temporary tariff exemption for certain U.S. imports and an expanded large enterprise tariff loan facility now accepting applications.

Source: Automotive News

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Auto Parts Tariffs May Be Delayed as Trump Considers Limited Exemptions

  • Trump may delay parts tariffs to give automakers time to shift supply chains domestically.

  • S. auto firms say broad tariffs will raise costs, cause layoffs, and hurt competitiveness.

  • Stock markets reacted positively to Trump’s comments on potential relief for car manufacturers.


On April 14, U.S. President Donald Trump said he is exploring potential exemptions to a planned 25% tariff on imported automotive parts. He cited the need to give manufacturers time to relocate production to the United States.

In the Oval Office, Trump stated, “They’re switching to parts that were made in Canada, Mexico and other places, and they need a little bit of time, because they’re going to make them here.”

The announcement comes as U.S. automakers continue lobbying the administration to shield low-cost vehicle components from new import duties. Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis have indicated a willingness to pay tariffs on completed vehicles and significant assemblies like engines but argue that sweeping tariffs on smaller parts could increase production costs by billions of dollars, disrupt supply chains, and trigger layoffs.

Trump’s comments briefly lifted auto stocks, with GM, Ford and Stellantis shares rebounding from session lows following the remarks.

The White House has already implemented a 25% tariff on fully assembled vehicle imports, and tariffs on parts will take effect no later than May 3rd. Current trade rules under the North American agreement allow for exemptions if vehicles meet minimum domestic content thresholds.

Automakers have argued that the proposed parts duties contradict the administration’s stated goal of revitalizing U.S. manufacturing. Industry representatives have warned that higher input costs could force companies to reduce investment or issue profit warnings.

Source: Automotive News

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U.S. Auto Tariffs Prompt Production Cuts, Layoffs and Price Hikes Across Industry

  • U.S. begins 25% auto tariff; automakers halt production and plan domestic output shifts.
  • Imported vehicle prices could rise up to US 27,200; parts tariffs begin May 3.
  • Canada, China, and E.U. respond with retaliatory tariffs and trade negotiations intensify.

A 25 % tariff on imported vehicles took effect in the United States on April 3, prompting production changes, layoffs, and pricing adjustments across the auto industry. The tariff will extend to imported automotive parts beginning May 3.

The levies, introduced by the Trump administration, are part of a broader strategy to increase domestic manufacturing. In response, companies have begun pausing or shifting production while re-evaluating vehicle pricing.

Automakers and analysts project sharp price increases for both imported and U.S.-made vehicles. Estimates from Anderson Economic Group suggest that prices could rise by U.S. 3,400 to 6,100 for domestically built vehicles, while imports from Europe and Asia could increase by up to 27,200. In 2024, imports made up about 45 percent of U.S. new-vehicle sales. Major suppliers included Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Germany.

Volkswagen U.S. Will Indicate Import Tariff as Separate Fee on Window Stickers

Stellantis temporarily laid off 1,000 workers in Michigan and Indiana and paused production at its Windsor, Ontario, and Toluca, Mexico plants. The Windsor plant builds the Chrysler Pacifica, Voyager, and electric Dodge Charger Daytona, while the Toluca facility produces the Jeep Compass and upcoming Jeep Wagoneer S.

Infiniti has suspended production of the Mexico-built QX50 and QX55 for the U.S. market. Volkswagen and Audi have delayed shipments of vehicles built in Mexico and overseas. Some cars are being held at U.S. ports.

In contrast, some automakers are shifting output to U.S. factories. Nissan reversed plans to eliminate a shift at its Tennessee plant. Mercedes-Benz is evaluating a production shift to its Alabama facility, while GM is increasing pickup truck production at its Indiana plant.

Pricing strategies also vary. Volkswagen added a line on window stickers for the import fee to destination charges for vehicles made in Europe and Mexico. Ferrari and Ineos raised prices for U.S.-bound models by up to 10 and 11 %, respectively.

Ford and Stellantis introduced short-term promotions offering employee pricing to all customers. Ford’s discount runs through June 2, while Stellantis’ offer ends April 30. Hyundai has not adjusted pricing but is evaluating potential impacts.

Canada responded by implementing its own 25 % tariff on U.S.-made vehicles. Under the USMCA, only the non-Canadian content of vehicles that meet trade agreement rules is subject to duties. According to Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico is in talks with the U.S. to mitigate tariff impacts within 40 days.

U.S. auto tariffs do not apply to vehicles from Canada and Mexico that comply with USMCA rules, but they will be subject to levies on any non-U.S. content. Auto parts made in those countries also remain exempt until a method for assessing non-domestic content is finalized.

Source: Automotive News

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2026 GMC Sierra EV Gets Over $25,000 More Affordable

The Sierra EV gains two trim levels and loses nearly a Miata’s worth of MSRP

A popular criticism of electric vehicles (EVs) is that they’re more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts. While that may be a generally valid point, GM is taking pretty drastic steps towards democratizing electrification by introducing two new Sierra EV trims that allow you to climb behind the wheel for around $28,000 less than last year.

2026 GMC Sierra EV AT4

GMC


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The less expensive Sierra trim levels are certainly no less capable

While last year’s GMC Sierra was only available in a single, fully-loaded trim level (the Denali), there’s a little bit more choice this time around. The first of the new additions is the Sierra EV AT4, which is an off-road-focused version of the truck, touting 35-inch all-terrain tires, a lifted suspension, and a Terrain Mode that comes exclusively on the trim level. The other, less expensive variant is the Sierra EV Elevation, which comes a bit more bare bones. The basics stay mostly the same, though, and features like Super Cruise, 18-inch wheels, and onboard power are all available.

No matter which truck you want, they’re both available with Extended Range battery levels that make 645 horsepower and at least 765 pound-feet (AT4 Extended Range trucks get 10 additional horses). Max and Extended Range trucks utilize 800-volt architecture, while the Standard Range trucks are relegated to 400-volt—likely what most customers will find a reason to pay up for. But if you don’t mind a slower charge time, the cost savings could be worthwhile.

2026 GMC Sierra EV AT4 and Elevation

GMC

The price changes make the Sierra EV significantly more affordable than the Tesla Cybertruck

Including the $2,095 destination charge, the new Sierra EV now starts at just $64,495, which gets you into the Elevation trim. If that wasn’t enough, the luxurious Denali trim level is now available with a Standard Range battery, which drops the Denali’s start price to $71,795. Perhaps most remarkably, even the aggressive GMC Sierra EV AT4 undercuts the infamous Tesla Cybertruck. After destination fees, the Cybertruck starts at $82,235—a precious $840 more than the AT4’s starting price of $81,395. Take a minute to do the math for the other trim levels, and you’ll find the standard Sierra EV comes in at $17,740 cheaper than the Cybertruck, while the feature-packed Denali saves you $10,440 compared to a Cybertruck.

2026 Sierra EV AT4 towing

GMC

Final thoughts

The Sierra EV is a lot more competitive than it was last year, and its incredible price point makes it a bit of a no-brainer for people genuinely trying to decide between the Cybertruck and another option. But GM still has competition in the electric truck segment, most notably from Ford’s F-150 Lightning XLT, which starts at an extremely close $65,190 for 2025. Like GMC, Ford has brought a careful selection of new features to the Lightning, in what promises to be quite a difficult duo to cross shop. Either way, the GMC Sierra EV badly needed an entry point below $90,000, and thankfully, it’s finally here.