2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss Debuts with Off-Road Prowess and Lower Prices

Chevrolet is expanding its electric Silverado lineup for 2026, introducing the off-road-ready Trail Boss trim and slashing prices on Work Truck (WT) and LT models to boost affordability. With enhanced battery options and a focus on rugged capability, the updates address range concerns and tap into the growing demand for versatile electric pickups, as detailed by Automotive News.

Affordable Electric Power

The 2026 Silverado EV WT starts at $54,895 (including shipping), a $2,200 reduction from the 2025 model, offering an EPA-estimated 286-mile range with its Standard Range battery. The LT trim, now starting at $62,995, introduces a Standard Range pack with 283 miles of range, down from $75,195 for the 2025 Extended Range base model. These price cuts align with industry trends, as slowing EV adoption—driven by high costs and charging concerns—prompts automakers to prioritize value.

Trail Boss: Built for the Wild

The new Trail Boss trim, priced at $72,095 with shipping, hits lots in summer 2025 and brings off-road grit to the Silverado EV. Featuring a 2-inch lift for 24% more ground clearance, a coil suspension tuned with hydraulic rebound control, and 35-inch all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, it’s designed for tough terrain. The trim includes a low-speed Terrain mode, four-wheel steering, and red tow hooks for added flair. “Trail Boss has been one of the highest-turning trims in our portfolio since we first launched it on the 2019 Silverado,” said Scott Bell, vice president of global Chevrolet, in a statement. “Adding Trail Boss to Silverado EV gives customers an option that builds on our strong truck pedigree, high electric range and off-road capability.”

Equipped with the Extended Range battery, the Trail Boss delivers 410 miles of range, tows up to 12,500 pounds, and carries 2,100 pounds of payload. Opt for the Max Range pack, and it boasts 725 horsepower, 775 pound-feet of torque, and a GM-estimated 478-mile range.

Battery Options Expand

Chevrolet introduces a Max Range battery across all trims for 2026, pushing the WT to an EPA-estimated 493 miles and the LT and Trail Boss to 478 miles. The Extended Range LT, priced at $71,195, maintains a 410-mile range. These options cater to buyers prioritizing distance, especially in rural areas with sparse charging networks, while the Standard Range packs lower costs for shorter commutes.

Industry Context and Sales

The updates come as GM ramps up Silverado EV production, with 7,428 units sold in the U.S. in 2024, up from 461 in 2023, per Chevrolet’s sales data. First-quarter 2025 sales hit 2,383, more than double the prior year. Chevrolet also axed the premium RST trim, priced at $89,395 for 2025, to focus on affordability and off-road appeal, carrying over most RST features like Sidewinder four-wheel steering to the LT and Trail Boss.

Implications for EV Owners

These changes make the Silverado EV more accessible, blending work-ready utility with off-road adventure. Lower prices and diverse battery options address economic barriers, while the Trail Boss appeals to enthusiasts tackling rugged landscapes. However, charging infrastructure remains a hurdle, particularly for off-roaders venturing far from urban grids. As EV adoption evolves, Chevrolet’s strategy positions the Silverado EV as a practical, powerful contender in the electric pickup race.

Photos courtesy of Chevrolet