New Chevrolet Blazer

GM Plans to Phase Out Apple CarPlay on Upcoming EVs

GM confirmed to Jalopnik that the 2024 Chevy Blazer will be the first GM EV without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto capability.

Drivers interested in a new electric vehicle from Chevrolet, Cadillac, Hummer or Buick might have to rely solely on the built-in infotainment system developed in collaboration with Google. According to Reuters, General Motors is planning to phase out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in its future electric vehicles. GM has confirmed the decision to Jalopnik. The phase-out will allow GM’s new Ultifi software platform to have more control from live charging station availability and traffic information to data-gathering and potential subscriptions.

The 2024 Chevy Blazer EV will be the first GM electric vehicle not to include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Both systems project a smartphone screen onto the vehicle’s digital display. The systems are so widely popular that they have become almost universal on new cars. Apple told CNBC that 79 percent of Americans “would only buy a car if it supported CarPlay.” The decision would significantly reduce Apple’s presence in the automotive sector while providing a direct boost to Google.

GM has told Jalopnik that several 2024 models will retain Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. Those models are the 2024 GMC Hummer EV, the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq, the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV and the 2024 Chevrolet Bolt. Also, ICE vehicles are not impacted by the decision.

 
The Chevrolet Blazer EV ends up almost €9,000 more expensive at dealerships

The Chevrolet Blazer EV was officially announced a couple of weeks ago with a starting price of €41,900 while the sporty RS trim was supposed to cost €48,452 but as it's rolling into dealerships across the US, the actual price seems to be €56,111. When you add delivery costs, the price hike easily goes beyond €9,000.

It's probably quite frustrating for customers who have already reserved an RS version of the new Blazer. The 2LT AWD iteration of the vehicle is also asking almost €9,000 more as the new price is now €52,850 from the original €44,351.

 
2024 Blazer EV AWD models to have 288 hp

Chevrolet has finally spilled some beans on its 2024 Blazer EV. But, as with any dish served with a side of news, not all details are seasoned with straightforwardness.

The automaker recently shared specifics on the 2024 Blazer EV 2LT and RS trims. In terms of power, both these dual electric motor (read: all-wheel drive) models will pack a punch with 288 horsepower and a torque of 333 lb-ft. On the dollar front, the all-wheel-drive versions of the 2LT and RS will bear price tags of $56,715 and $61,790, respectively. Now, if you’re wondering about the price for the front-drive 2LT – join the club; Chevrolet is keeping that number under wraps for now.

Speaking of wraps and unveiling, it’s noteworthy to mention a significant change. Chevrolet's 1LT trim for the 2024 Blazer EV, which was initially set to hit the market with a starting price of $44,995, has disappeared like a magician's chosen card. Poof! Gone. In its stead, the front-wheel-drive 2LT trim stands ready, but with its price tag still playing the elusive card. Given the existing power range, one might assume that the front-wheel-drive Blazer EV might dish out something close to 210 horsepower and a torque of 328 Nm – but that’s pure speculation based on the Chevy Equinox EV.

The mid-tier all-wheel-drive RS doesn’t just come with a power-packed performance. Those who opt for this vehicle will be treated to features like ventilated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, and a grille that gives the 2LT a run for its money. This variant is set to make its debut this summer, and if you're eager to get your hands on it, be ready to shell out at least $60,215.

 
Chevy’s New Blazer EV RS Is An Incredibly Normal EV

The Blazer EV is a handsome and spacious offering that serves family needs well, but enthusiasts need not inquire

Conclusion

The Blazer EV is one of very few vehicles that will qualify for the full $7,500 tax rebate in the new year, which bodes well for its success. The fact that Blazer EV is priced so similarly to the Cadillac Lyriq with which it shares a platform and which is also eligible for the full government rebate, makes it a bit of a hard sell.

If you think a Blazer RS is going to be a sporty experience, you are wrong. But if you think a Blazer RS will be a great family car, then you are right. The Blazer is not groundbreaking, and it does not need to be. I think the Blazer EV is a fabulously agreeable EV that may well be what the market needs. If only it was half the price….

 
Broken 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV Leaves Journalist Stranded In Virginia

What was supposed to be a week-long loan ended up lasting only 28 hours.

When InsideEVs’ Kevin Williams got his hands on a 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, he had big plans for it. Starting in Columbus, Ohio, he was going to take it on a 471-mile road trip to Raleigh, North Carolina, testing out its real-world range, charging speed, comfort and driving experience. Considering that vehicles built on General Motors’ Ultium platform have had plenty of problems since it was first rolled out, he knew it might not be a hassle-free trip, but as he pointed out, the Blazer EV was recently named MotorTrend’s SUV of the Year, so it couldn’t be that bad, right?

Wrong. The first problem started before the road trip even began. While topping it up at a nearby charger, the car insisted on playing the music at full volume every time it reconnected with his phone via Bluetooth. Not long after crossing into West Virginia, the infotainment screen died. He was able to reboot it, but from then on, both it and the gauge cluster kept flickering on and off. Still, the car was drivable, so he kept going.

When he stopped to charge in Wytheville, however, the real problems began. Initially, the car started charging like normal, but a couple of minutes later, he got a notification that the car was fully charged.

 
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