CHEVROLET is planning to reinvent the iconic Camaro muscle car as an electric SUV to compete with the Ford Mustang Mach-E, according to reports.
The US giant is seemingly following the recent market trend of favoring SUVs and EVs, but the decision has sparked some controversy among fans – who view the potential change as harming the brand’s identity.
The brand is keen to compete with other performance SUV EVs on the market in a compete to keep up with market trends[/caption]
Indeed, this move by Chevy is seen as a move to compete with the Ford Mustang Mach-E[/caption]
According to MotorTrend, among others, Chevy’s plans for re-releasing the Camaro – the famous nameplate that was discontinued at the end of the 2024 model year – will see it compete with the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
The Camaro, which was originally designed as a coupe to rival the Mustang in the mid-1960s, is set to be reinvented as an electric fastback SUV – thanks to the ever-growing popularity of SUVs and electric vehicles.
General Motors (GM) , who own Chevy,may offer the Camaro as a fun, affordable EV that still potentially appeals to sports car enthusiasts.
Currently, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is one of the most popular EVs in the US and is considered a leading alternative to the Tesla Model Y.
However, at the time of its release in 2020, many Ford enthusiasts felt the Mustang name should be reserved for its traditional, two-door, V8-powered sports car.
To that end, many traditionalists seemingly feel the same way about the Camaro becoming an EV SUV.
Indeed, taking to social media, fans were quick to pan the brand’s plans for the model, with one fan begging: “Please don’t bring it back, we’d rather see it dead.”
Another said: “Moment of silence for the official death of the Camaro.”
And a third commented: “You either die as a pony car or live long enough to see yourself as an EV SUV.”
A fourth simply added: “Worst decision they’ll ever make.”
Should Chevy go ahead with the next-gen Camaro EV, it will likely come with performance options such as the Camaro EV SS and ZL1 – which could feature enhanced performance capabilities.
MotorTrend also estimated its starting price may start at $36,000 for base models and go up to $65,500 for high-performance trims.
The model’s expected release date is Fall 2026.
This comes as the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 recently topped a list of the most frequently stolen cars across the US.
Other Chevrolet and GMC vehicles like the GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado trucks also feature high on the ranking.
Data from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) suggests these vehicles are being targeted due to vulnerabilities found in their keyless entry systems, as well their general desirability among thieves.
GM has since released software updates and security measures to address these issues, but drivers are being advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
The Camaro ZL1 has a recorded theft rate that is 39 times higher than average for 2022 to 2024 models.
It’s believed thieves are simply drawn to its high horsepower and performance, while its on-board data ports are said to make it easier to steal.
Why aren’t people buying EVs?
In January, many EV makers reported slow demand. Reuters said there are a few valid reasons for a slow in demand:
- High initial costs. Many automakers, like Tesla, Hyundai, and Ford have conducted “price slashes” on their flagship EVs to attract new buyers, though demand remains slow.
- Higher insurance costs. Some insurance companies cite fire risks, high costs of battery replacement, and higher vehicle weight as reasons for higher premiums.
- Charging anxiety. A large percentage of people remain fearful of being in a situation where they won’t be able to charge if they run out of battery due to a lack of infrastructure.
- Range anxiety. In many instances, EVs still don’t have the range and infrastructure of gas-powered vehicles.
- Poor performance in extreme temperatures. Reduced range in extremely hot or cold weather makes potential buyers wary.
Source: Reuters
