General Motors has a long history of badge engineering, offering vehicles that are essentially the same but sold under different brands. However, in the electric era, the company is making efforts to differentiate its products more distinctly. The latest EV Buyers Guide video by Alex Dykes delves into the core differences between the Chevy Blazer EV and the Cadillac Lyriq, both of which are all-electric Ultium vehicles built on the same platform with similar software suites.
One of the key distinctions between the Blazer EV and the Lyriq is the drivetrain options. While both models offer all-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive variants, the Blazer also provides a front-wheel-drive option. This makes the Blazer EV one of the few vehicles in history to offer FWD, RWD, and AWD configurations, something that would have been challenging to achieve economically with an internal combustion engine due to the different packaging requirements. Moreover, the Blazer offers both front-biased and rear-biased AWD systems, depending on the version you choose.
Additionally, the Blazer and Lyriq come with slightly different battery options. The Blazer EV RWD, Blazer EV SS, and all Lyriq variants feature a 102 kWh lithium-ion battery that can charge at up to 190 kW. On the other hand, the Blazer LT and RS models with FWD and AWD configurations are equipped with an 85 kWh battery that charges at a maximum of 150 kW. The lower-voltage pack in these models may pose challenges in achieving high charging speeds on certain chargers.
The Cadillac Lyriq stands out with its upscale interior and higher base price compared to the Chevy Blazer EV. Additionally, the Lyriq offers features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were missing in the Blazer. For those considering the Blazer EV but looking for a more luxurious option, the Lyriq could be a suitable alternative. Alternatively, consumers could also explore the Honda Prologue, which offers a similar vehicle platform.
In conclusion, while General Motors continues to offer vehicles with shared underpinnings, the company is making efforts to provide distinct options in the electric vehicle segment. The Chevy Blazer EV and Cadillac Lyriq showcase how GM is differentiating its electric offerings through unique features and design elements. As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how GM further refines its lineup to cater to different consumer preferences and demands.