The GMC Sierra EV Denali Gets a Range Boost and Shows Off Its Cool Moves

The highly anticipated GMC Sierra EV Denali is almost ready to arrive and it’s clear this electric truck has some impressive tricks up its sleeve. GMC recently announced the Sierra EV Denali will have an even longer estimated range than originally stated, coming in at a maximum of 440 miles on a single charge.

This is a significant boost over the 400 mile estimate when the truck was first unveiled. With ranges this high, the Sierra EV Denali seems poised to be a serious contender in the emerging electric truck segment. Between its best-in-class range, high power and torque output, massive fast charging capability, and of course its show-stopping CrabWalk feature, it’s evident GMC designed this electric pickup to offer truck owners both utility and entertainment.

More Range for the Big Rig

GMC is giving the Sierra EV Denali more estimated range than originally announced. When the truck was first unveiled, GMC estimated it would get around 400 miles of range; the updated figure is closer to 440 miles on a full charge.

As with any manufacturer-estimated range figure, real-world results will vary with driving conditions, temperature, and load. Still, 440 miles is a strong figure for an electric vehicle, especially a full-size pickup. Most EVs on the road today still can't crack 300 miles without stopping to charge.

The Powerful Denali Edition

GMC also shared more details about the launch version of the Sierra EV Denali, called the Edition 1. In "Max Power Mode," GMC says it delivers over 750 horsepower and nearly 800 pound-feet of torque.

Payload capacity is rated around 1,450 pounds, with a maximum towing rating of 10,000 pounds. As with any EV, expect a meaningful range reduction when towing a heavy trailer. GMC hasn't published a specific towing-range figure, so budget accordingly on longer trips.

Super-Fast Charging

Another major selling point for the Sierra EV Denali is its fast-charging capability. It's built around an 800-volt charging architecture that supports DC fast chargers at up to 350 kilowatts, which GMC says can add around 100 miles of range in about 10 minutes on a suitable charger.

That fast charging speed is a meaningful advantage for truck owners doing road trips or long commutes, helping address one of the main concerns people have about EV road-tripping. That said, actual charging speed on a given charger depends on that charger's real output and the battery's state of charge.

Check Out Its Cool Tricks

Beyond hauling and towing, the GMC Sierra EV Denali also includes a feature called "CrabWalk," which lets the truck move sideways in tight spaces or tricky off-road situations. GMC has demonstrated the feature on its electric SUV and truck platforms in released footage.

In CrabWalk mode, the rear wheels turn at the same angle as the front wheels but in the opposite direction, allowing the truck to shuffle sideways rather than execute a standard turning maneuver. It's a niche but genuinely useful capability in tight parking situations or technical off-road terrain.

Final Thought

Between its long range, strong power and torque figures, and fast charging, the Sierra EV Denali is positioned to be a serious contender in the electric truck segment, with the CrabWalk feature adding a distinctive party trick to its capability set.

At a starting price around $100k for the Edition 1, it's not a cheap truck. But for the range, capability, and features on offer, it's a compelling option for buyers who do a lot of towing or long-distance driving and want to go electric.

FAQ

How much will the GMC Sierra EV Denali cost?

GMC has announced the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 launch version will start at $99,495, including destination fees. Pricing for other trims was not provided but will likely be competitive with other electric trucks on the market.

What is the towing and payload capacity?

The Sierra EV Denali will be able to tow up to 10,000 pounds, exceeding most gas trucks. Payload capacity is also strong at 1,450 pounds. While exact range figures while towing are unknown, its high battery capacity should allow for respectable range even with heavy loads.

How long will it take to charge?

Thanks to 800-volt fast charging capability, the Sierra EV Denali can gain around 100 miles of range in only 10 minutes on a DC fast charger rated up to 350kW. Public charging will also be supported on slower Level 2 stations, but road trippers will appreciate its lightning quick fast charging times.

What is CrabWalk and how does it work?

CrabWalk allows the rear wheels to turn at the same angle as the front wheels but in the opposite direction. This enables the Sierra EV Denali to literally “crab walk” sideways when more maneuverability is needed such as in tight spaces. It’s a unique feature that should make tricky parking jobs or off-roading a breeze.

When will it be available for purchase?

GMC has stated the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 models will begin production in late 2022, with first deliveries expected in summer 2023. Additional trims should follow in the coming years. Interested customers can sign up on the GMC website to receive the latest availability and ordering information.