The wait for the highly anticipated Chevy Blazer EV stretches on as General Motors grapples with persistent software glitches. Launched in December with much fanfare, sales were abruptly halted just weeks later due to these unforeseen issues.
Nearly two months have passed, and the electric Blazer remains grounded. GM CEO Mary Barra, acknowledging the setback, declared 2024 the “year of execution” for the automaker. This ambitious plan involves tackling several pressing challenges, including resetting EV production, revitalizing the Cruise self-driving project, and, of course, fixing those pesky software bugs.
The software woes extend beyond the Blazer, impacting even the gas-powered Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks, according to reports. Barra admitted that while recognizing the competitive advantage of manufacturing, she would have liked “more time in planning and risk assessment” for new projects like the Blazer EV.
Last year, GM successfully navigated the hurdle of battery cell assembly. Now, the focus shifts to flawless EV production execution. The company has already announced delays for key electric vehicle launches like the Equinox EV, Silverado RST EV, and GMC Denali EV pickup. These models are still expected to arrive this year, but the software hiccups have caused some “growing pains,” as Barra conceded.
Getting the software right is paramount for GM, not just for customer satisfaction but also to unlock its potential as a revenue stream. The company recruited former Apple executive Mike Abbot last year to revamp its software team, bringing in talent from tech giants like Google, Apple, and Meta.
“We’ve already revamped the software development process and, more importantly, the validation process,” Barra declared, promising software that exceeds expectations and stands out from the competition.
While gas vehicles are expected to bring in significant profits this year, GM needs to convince Wall Street that it can build cost-effective, desirable Ultium EVs. The recently announced starting price of $34,995 for the base Chevy Equinox EV, with its impressive 319-mile range, positions it as a potentially game-changing offering. This price includes the destination fee and can be further lowered to $27,495 with the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
The Equinox EV fills the void left by the discontinued Chevy Bolt, GM’s former best-selling EV. While an Ultium-based Bolt is planned for next year, the more affordable Equinox EV could play a crucial role in getting GM back on track. Dealers are already gearing up to receive orders, eager to see if this electric SUV can live up to its promise.
With the “year of execution” in full swing, GM faces a critical test. Can it overcome the software hurdles, deliver on its ambitious EV plans, and regain the trust of eager customers waiting for the Chevy Blazer EV and other electric vehicles? Only time will tell.
