GM Breaks EV Range Record with Chevy Silverado Work Truck
GM engineers pushed the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Max Range WT to a record-setting 1,059 miles on a single charge, surpassing the previous mark by over 300 miles.
Engineers drove the Silverado EV Max Range WT in one-hour shifts, optimizing speed, aerodynamics, and driving habits to maximize range.
Photo: General Motors
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A 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Max Range Work Truck, EPA-estimated for up to 493 miles, achieved 1,059.2 miles on a single charge during a range test conducted by the GM engineering team, the company reported.
Test Setup
The challenge began as an internal discussion among engineers about the truck’s maximum potential range. A stock Silverado EV Max Range WT was driven on public roads near GM’s Milford Proving Ground and Detroit’s Belle Isle. Engineers rotated in one-hour driving shifts.
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No hardware or software changes were made to the vehicle. Adjustments were limited to settings and driving habits within owner’s manual guidelines:
Maintaining speeds between 20–25 mph where safe
Avoiding hard braking and rapid acceleration
Driving without passengers for most of the test
Lowering windshield wipers to the minimal acceptable position
Inflating tires to the highest recommended pressure
Removing the spare tire to reduce weight
Optimizing wheel alignment
Adding a tonneau cover for improved aerodynamics
Turning off climate control
Conducting the test in summer for optimal battery temperature
A 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Max Range WT logged 1,059.2 miles during a range test in Michigan, breaking the previous world record.
Photo: General Motors
Performance Insights
The most efficient speed was found to be 20–25 mph, minimizing energy use outside of propulsion. The test aimed to generate real-world, applicable data for engineering teams rather than a theoretical maximum under unrealistic conditions.
“This achievement reflects integration across battery chemistry, drive unit efficiency, software, and vehicle engineering,” said Kurt Kelty, vice president of battery, propulsion, and sustainability, in a recent news release.
Range Leadership
With an EPA-estimated 493-mile range, the 2026 Silverado EV Max Range WT currently leads electric truck range ratings. Range remains the top purchase consideration for Silverado EV buyers, according to GM research.
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The record-setting vehicle was later used to power a 3D printer that produced a trophy commemorating the milestone.
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