GMC Canyon Electric truck: What to expect [Update]

Update: ‘Design’ and ‘Technology & Features’ sections updated.

GM’s EV blitz in the next four years will bring many affordable EVs to the market. In contrast to six-digit Hummers and Cadillacs, these sub-$50,000 crossovers and SUVs would drive EV adoption in America, which is now dominated by gas-powered SUVs and trucks.

A model of interest in the low-end EV range is the GMC Canyon Electric. Here’s what we expect from the future electric truck.

Design

Our rendering of the Canyon Electric is derived from the GMC Sierra Denali EV. It’s likely that GMC will draw more than a few styling cues from the Sierra for its midsize pickup truck, as depicted in our illustration. It is imagined with the new interpretation of the GMC grille, in a crew cab configuration.

Featuring a closed, smooth surface in place of the ICE Canyon’s radiator grille, the Canyon EV will be a little more aerodynamic. The closed panel between the split headlights would also ensure the cargo stored in the eTrunk (frunk), remains secure. A full-width light stripe would connect the upper section of the split headlights, but GM designers, unlike on the Sierra EV, might not use perimeter grille lighting.

Technology & Features

Ultium Drive

Once GM finishes the rollout of its full-size electric pickup family, which includes the GMC Hummer EV Pickup, GMC Sierra EV, and Chevrolet Silverado EV, it should electrify mid-size electric pickup models. The GMC Canyon Electric would be a premium model in that category. It should sit on a modified version of the GM BT1 platform, pack Ultium batteries, and sport Ultium Drive motors.

Heat pump

Like other Ultium-based products, the Canyon Electric will have a heat pump as standard. The heat emitted from batteries, power electronics, and other propulsion components would be recovered and stored for later usage in heating the cabin and conditioning batteries before charging in winters.

Super Cruise

Unlike today’s gas-engined truck, the Canyon Electric may feature trailering-capable Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance technology that’s currently usable on 400,000+ miles of compatible roads in the U.S. and Canada.

V2L

Off-board power through multiple outlets will likely allow customers to use power tools and other accessories at a campsite or on the trail, and even power another EV using the battery pack’s stored energy. Bi-directional charging may allow powering essential home appliances for two-three weeks.

HUD & Displays

The digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system may measure at least 11 inches diagonally. The latter should have a split-screen function to view/operate multiple apps simultaneously. A multi-color HUD may also be part of the cockpit displays.

Powertrain

The GMC Canyon Electric may deliver a range of around 350 miles, although there should be additional variants with a smaller battery pack that offers a range of under 300 miles for customers on a budget. A powertrain consisting of two motors, one driving the front wheels and one spinning the rear wheels, could come standard. Expect two to three different power and torque levels, each offering different acceleration, speed, payload capacity, and towing capacity.

Production & Release Date

The GMC Canyon Electric could be manufactured at the Orion Assembly plant starting around 2026. GM hasn’t confirmed the existence of the model in its roadmap. The company expects to manufacture 400,000 EVs in North America between 2022 and the first half of 2024. In 2025, it expects to have an annual production capacity of 1 million EVs in the region.

Also Read: Chevrolet Colorado Electric truck: What to expect

GMC Canyon Electric FAQs

Featured image: TopElectricSUV’s rendering of the GMC Canyon EV.