Demand for electric pickups is red hot and set to ignite further when the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV and Ram 1500 Revolution launch soon. These bold entrants aim to flip the pickup world on its head – delivering a new era of zero-emissions workhorse trucks overflowing with power, tech and capabilities.
But between these two icons of American trucking, which next-gen EV comes out on top? Let‘s gear up for an in-depth feature-by-feature face-off. By the end, you‘ll have all the details to decide if the Silverado‘s well-rounded strengths or the Revolution‘s towing brawn is the best fit.
Overview: Breaking New Ground for EV Trucks
The Silverado EV and Ram 1500 Revolution make one thing clear – the electric pickup segment is accelerating fast from early growing pains into an exciting new phase.
Look back just five years ago and electric truck shoppers faced extremely limited options. Niche automakers like Rivian were only on the cusp of initial production. Established brands had yet to commit fully to electrification or tailor EV platforms for serious trucking performance.
But the Silverado EV and Ram 1500 Revolution stand to fast track this transition through 2025 and beyond. Not just compliance cars or "good enough" adaptations of gas-powered trucks, these beasts target unmatched levels of capability rivaling or besting combustion counterparts.
2024 Chevy Silverado EV (left) and 2024 Ram 1500 Revolution (right). Images: GM / Ram
For a better sense, let‘s crunch the numbers next to their gasoline stablemates – the Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500:
| Spec | Silverado EV | Silverado 1500 | Ram 1500 Revolution | Ram 1500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 615 | 285 – 420 | 654 | 260 – 401 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 630+ | 305 – 468 | 620+ | 269 – 429 |
| 0-60 mph (sec) | 4.5 sec | 5.5 – 7.8 sec | 4.4 sec | 5.8 – 7.6 sec |
| Max Towing | 8,000 lbs | 9,500 – 13,400 lbs | ~14,000 lbs | 9,350 – 12,750 lbs |
| Max Payload | 1,300 lbs | 1,695 – 2,250 lbs | ~2,700 lbs | 1,710 – 2,320 lbs |
Right away the profound power improvements of electric motors shine through – sending torque and acceleration into the stratoshere compared to even the burliest gas pickups. And we‘re only seeing the start here with towing/payload not far behind.
So while gas-powered trucks still hold an advantage for extreme towing duties thanks to larger frames and mechanicals, these electric newcomers promise to satisfy most buyer needs with pure electric might.
Now let‘s scrutinize just how the Silverado EV and Ram 1500 Revolution stack up to crown the next-gen ev truck king across all the specs you care about.
Power and Performance
First to the test of straight line muscle…
| Spec | Silverado EV | Ram 1500 Revolution |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 615 | 654 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 630+ | 620+ |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 sec | 4.4 sec |
Horsepower and torque estimates as stated by Chevrolet and Ram based on target production specs
On paper, we‘re looking at a virtual dead heat between these EV truck titans. Both deliver sports-car rivalling acceleration via triple digit torque figures hitting all four wheels – easily torching any gasoline pickup and most vehicles on the road.
The Ram Revolution edges ahead ever so slightly with 39 more horses and a 0.1 seconds quicker sprint to 60 mph. However Chevy‘s inclusion of a torque vectoring AWD system (which can shift power side to side) may give the Silverado an advantage in terms of agility and improved handling. This could prove especially useful on worksites navigating mud or loose terrain.
But either way you slice it, expect these electric workhorses to provide positively visceral performance unlike anything pickup drivers have experiened before. Just be sure to secure any loose items in the bed before stomping the accelerator!
Range and Charging
For truck duties like towing however, pure performance takes a backseat to all-around capability – making driving range a key consideration for EV models.
Hauling tons of cargo or trailers inevitably hampers mileage across any vehicle drivetrain. But exactly how far can you expect to travel between plugging in the Silverado EV or Ram 1500 Revolution?
| Spec | Silverado EV | Ram 1500 Revolution |
|---|---|---|
| Max Range (mi) | 400+ | 500+ |
| Battery Pack(s) | 200 kWh 167 kWh | 229 kWh |
| Fast Charge Rate | 350 kW (adds ~100 mi in 10 min) | 350 kW |
Range and charge rate figures via Chevrolet and Ram development targets
The numbers speak for themselves – Ram has gone all-in on range, stuffing the largest battery pack yet seen into a pickup. An (optional) hulking 229 kWh unit should deliver up to 500 miles by Ram‘s estimates. That‘s moving firmly into light duty territory – perhaps finally vanquishing worries around finding a charger.
Chevy plays it slightly more conservative on battery capacity. The largest 200 kWh option skulle still achieve 400+ miles by the math – just trailing competitors. Yet real-world ranges could prove comparable if towing/hauling efficiency enter the equation.
Both arrive compatible with the fastest 350 kW DC fast charging. So drivers can regain substantial driving distance quickly during stops – with Ram claiming up to 100 miles added in just 10 minutes.
All said – between the two EV heavyweights, Ram looks clearly focused on eliminating any hint of range anxiety in the 1500 Revolution.
Design and Interior Space
Beyond just capability, these electric trucks usher in a new era of interior design befitting their futuristic underpinnings.
Ram chief designer Joe Dehner summed up the interior mission with one word – "theatrics". Clearly no longer just utilitarian work vehicles, these cabs blend luxury, technology and functionality into one stunning EV package.
Both models bring a feast for the senses through advanced lighting, premium materials, giant touchscreens and reconfigurable digital displays covering the dash. Unique Mercedes-like Hyperscreens in the Ram Truck concept fully eliminate traditional gauges – absorbing drivers into twin panel landscapes optimized for electric driving.
Chevy injects a health dose of ruggedness into the Silverado EV interior with grippy Steerwheel controls, bold machined metal accents and an enormous flow-through center console/storage bin. Wireless smartphone integration, heated rear seats and aGM Voltex fast charger round out the family-sized functionality.
So no matter which model, expect technology, style and appointment leaps above any current mainstream pickup.
However when it comes to outright passenger and storage room – the final dimensions remain unclear, especially concerning the Ram Revolution:
| Spec | Silverado EV | Ram 1500 Revolution |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | TBA | TBA |
| Max Cargo Bed | TBA | TBA |
| Front Legroom | 44.5 in | 43 in |
| Rear Legroom | 44.3 in | TBA |
| Front Headroom | 41.9 / 43.9 in | TBA |
| Rear Headroom | 39.7 / 38.7 in | TBA |
Dimensions for Silverado EV via Chevrolet. Most Ram 1500 Revolution interior measurements still pending release.
On paper, the Silverado EV looks to retain a similar cabin footprint to its Silverado 1500 sibling given the figures above.
Ram has only published front legroom spec so far, which falls slightly under the Silverado EV. So it‘s reasonable to expect comparable overall interior space between the two. Although Ram‘s cab-forward exterior design could open up some extra utility.
More details should emerge soon as production nears to confirm any cabin advantages. But either way expect no compromise on interior livability shifting to these groundbreaking EV pickups.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Alright, time for these electric trucksters to prove what they can (or can‘t yet) do versus old school diesel and gas models…
Hauling and towing remain non-negotiable duties for any pickup worth its salt. Especially considering Strategic Vision research shows over 50% of truck owners use their vehicle for towing.
So what can Silverado EV and Ram 1500 Revolution owners plan to pull or haul?
| Spec | Silverado EV | Ram 1500 Revolution |
|---|---|---|
| Max Towing | 8000 lbs | ~14,000 lbs |
| Max Payload | 1300 lbs | ~2700 lbs |
2024 Ram 1500 Revolution promises best-in-class towing and payload capacity among EV pickups. Image: Ram
Advantage Ram.
While both models make huge strides increasing electric truck capabilities – the Revolution leaves doubts in the rearview with targeted best-in-class towing and payload ratings.
Engineering a torsional rigid frame and robust chassis components earn credit for that 14,000 lb tow checkmark. Similarly, advanced pending and cooling accommodate over a ton of truck bed payload without apparent compromise.
Consider the peace of mind knowing your boat, RV, equipment trailer will have room to grow capabilities-wise even as your needs evolve. No maxing out here.
The Silverado sets slightly more conservative (yet still impressive) targets nearing parity with gas Silverado 1500 offerings. This still leaves plenty of strength for everyday truck duties – but gives Revolution owners more breathing room.
Pay attention to these numbers though… as payload shrinks and trailers grow, your real-world range can suffer substantially. But Ram‘s mega battery pack should help ease as least ease range anxiety if forging farther out on jobs.
Driver Assistance and Connectivity
If the idea of a computer driving your truck sets off alarms – these may be the EV pickups to warm up to.
Chevy and Ram are injecting both Silverado EV and 1500 Revolution with suite of sensors and self-driving aids that inch into autonomous assistance:
Silverado EV Technology Package
- Enhanced Super Cruise: hands-free driving assist on compatible roads
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- HD Surround Vision
- Trailering Camera Package
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- MyChevrolet Mobile App
Ram 1500 Revolution Concept
- Level 3 Autonomy: eyes-off wheel driving capability
- Driver and Occupant Monitoring Systems
- Revolutionary Hands-Free Driving Modes
- Advanced Digital Cockpit with Hyper Screens
- Integrated Phone Mirroring
The core premise is giving drivers confidence in harnessing 700+ hp trucks – while preventing distraction and danger.
Chevy‘s Super Cruise now boasts compatibility with over 400,00 miles of roads and highways. Translation: eyes forward while the truck handles most acceleration, steering and braking duties in traffic.
Ram published even loftier goals of reaching SAE Level 3 autonomy equivalence on the Revolution. That means truly automated driving with onboard systems fully monitoring surroundings when engaged – no driver input needed. A potential huge assist when navigating downtown worksites and complex parking scenarios a Cummins diesel couldn‘t dream of.
And that infiltration of screens and cloud integration works both ways – allowing owners unprecedented control and connection with these EV pickups no matter where jobs take them. Expect Ram especially to enable intuitive, app-based remote access and management of most any vehicle system imaginable in the 1500 Revolution.
Pricing and Incentives
Alright, here comes the moment of truth – what outlay can expected buying into these cutting-edge EV pickups?
Chevrolet has provided base target MSRPs so far for Silverado EV models. Ram is still finalizing factory build costs on the Revolution – but the massive tech infusion won‘t come cheap.
2024 Chevy Silverado EV Pricing
| Trim | Base MSRP |
|---|---|
| WT | $41,500 |
| RST | $51,500 |
| Trailboss | $66,000 |
| Range-topping trims | $100,000+ |
2024 Ram 1500 Revolution Expected Pricing
| Trim | Expected Base MSRP |
|---|---|
| Tradesman | ~$58,000 |
| Limited | ~$90,000+ |
| Tungsten | ~$115,000 |
Yes, breaking the 6-figure mark becomes plausible for premium configurations of both entries before additional fees. And keep in mind MSRPs often understate real world pricing with dealer adjustments and markup. Resist those thirsty upsells to avoid a $150,000 mortgage payment!
Silverado EV shoppers do catch a break with the workhorse WT model coming in just over $40K – offering a slightly easier entry point before climbing the ladder to 4-wheel steering, multi-flex tailgates and 18-camera displays.
For the Ram Revolution, their lofty specs don‘t come cheap either. Expect a Tradesman model avilable, but LIMITED and Tungston trims pile on luxury and tech pushing fees intense pricing territory for pickups.
Tax credits and incentives remain in flux on Capitol Hill, but current policy allows for a $7,500 federal credit plus state rebates where applicable. So cushions do exist easing the blow some. But no questioning these modern marvels demand large outlays comparable to six-figure SUVs. Start budgeting your drive off the lot today.
The Verdict: Silverado EV vs Ram 1500 Revolution
This electric truck showdown unearthed a clear outcome…
For pure towing muscle and payload readiness, the 2024 Ram 1500 Revolution appears poised to take EV capability to new heights. Auras of luxury and technology further cement its status advancing the pickup game into uncharted territory. Ram continues pushing the envelope to enable electrification across all pickup purposes.
However as an all-around versatile performer loaded with well-balanced capability – the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV also makes a compelling case cementing electric trucks as everyday viable. With more digestible pricing and acceptible power, payload and range -Chevy makes forgoing gas painless for most pickup needs.
In reality – there‘s no going wrong between these two modern marvels. Both the Silverado EV and Ram 1500 Revolution set new benchmarks proving electric trucking‘s imminent rise to the forefront. The only question left is – what capability can you live without?
For cost-conscious contractors or single-vehicle households balancing work and family pursuits – the Silverado EV notches the win. Want to tow the biggest boats and horse trailers around while keeping your tech stocks? The Revolution brings the brawn and brains to accommodate almost any electric truck lifestyle.
Either way, the future is here and electrified for pickup fans. Get your preorder in and brace for a wild ride ahead!
