When GM heralded the return of the Hummer nameplate as an electric-only GMC model, fans of the rugged off-roader were torn. Reliance on a plug felt very much at odds with the diesel and gas-powered go-anywhere machines that had worn the badge previously. However, 1000 horsepower, instant torque, and clever new off-road technologies would, in theory, advance the Hummer’s capabilities far beyond any fore-bearer. Ultimately, the skeptics couldn’t keep the new Hummer EV pickup down;The 2022 First Edition’s order books filled rapidly.
Unwilling to let the buzz fade, GMC has announced a companion SUV based on the Hummer EV pickup’s platform. Powered by the same Ultium battery technology that promises quick charging times (at up to 300 kWh) and 300-plus miles of range, the electric SUV is every bit as impressive as its open-bed counterpart. Unlike the pickup, however, the SUV won’t go on sale until early 2023.
GM says the delay is due to an alternate release schedule compared to the pickup. While the Hummer pickup will begin deliveries this Fall, more affordable versions won’t hit the market until 2022 and 2023. The SUV, meanwhile, will offer all versions during a single year. Furthermore, you can pre-order both the pickup or SUV right now.
Trim levels are tied to the Hummer EV SUV’s powertrain: a choice of two or three electric motors. The EV2 and EV2X have the dual-motor setup that generates an estimated 625 horsepower and a claimed 7,400 pound-feet of torque . The EV3X and the Edition 1 have a trio of motors (one up front and two In back) with a claimed 830 horses and 11,500 pound-feet. Those torque figures sound ludicrous, and indeed, by traditional calculation, they are. Actual torque ratings should be between 1,000 to 1,100 lb-ft. GM says the most potent Hummer EV SUV will reach 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
The SUV’s shorter wheelbase relative to the pickup should allow for better maneuverability on and off-road. The pickup’s coolest features, including four-wheel steering with CrabWalk mode and air suspension with 6.0 inches of additional clearance will be available in the SUV. Both models will also be offered with an Extreme Off-Road package ($5,000) that bundles 18-inch wheels on 35-inch all-terrain tires, extra underbody protection, low-mounted cameras for improved visibility, enhanced axles with heavy-duty components, a locking front differential, and rear motors that can electronically mimic a locked diff.
Inside, the SUV will feature a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and 13.4-inch infotainment, complimented by numerous physical buttons, a T-shaped shifter, and rotary drive mode selector. Like the pickup, the SUV will feature four transparent, removable roof panels and an I-bar above the front passengers. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot come standard. An available 6.0-kW onboard generator can power any camping gear or off-road equipment. Those who plan to road-trip their SUV will also appreciate available enhanced Super Cruise for semi-autonomous highway driving.
First Edition Hummer EV SUV models will carry a price of $105,595 while the least expensive EV2 will sticker for $79,995.