The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS RWD is a standout in the electric vehicle (EV) market, blending sporty design, impressive range, and advanced technology. With an EPA-estimated range of 334 miles and access to Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network, it promises a seamless charging experience for daily commutes and long road trips. However, like any EV, it comes with its share of challenges, from awkward charge port placement to slower charging speeds compared to rivals. In this article, we’ll dive into the joys and woes of charging the Blazer EV RS RWD, based on real-world experiences and insights from a yearlong review by MotorTrend and other sources.
The Joys of Charging the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS RWD
Impressive Range and Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of the Blazer EV RS RWD is its 102-kWh battery pack, which delivers an EPA-estimated range of 334 miles—up from 324 miles in the 2024 model. This makes it one of the longest-range electric SUVs in its class, outpacing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E (up to 320 miles) and the Volkswagen ID.4 (up to 291 miles). In real-world testing, MotorTrend achieved 275 miles, and one X user reported estimating 370 miles based on their driving habits, highlighting the vehicle’s efficiency. This range provides flexibility, allowing drivers to tackle long road trips with fewer charging stops.
Access to Tesla’s Supercharger Network
A major highlight is the Blazer EV’s compatibility with Tesla’s Supercharger network, enabled by a GM-approved NACS (North American Charging Standard) adapter. With over 2,800 Tesla Supercharger locations in the U.S. compared to Electrify America’s 1,000, this access significantly expands charging options. During a 500-mile road trip from Los Angeles to Tucson, MotorTrend found that Tesla Superchargers kept wait times minimal and provided reliable charging, making long-distance travel more convenient than with EVs limited to CCS (Combined Charging System) chargers. The myChevrolet app further simplifies the process by allowing drivers to locate chargers and pay seamlessly.
User-Friendly Technology
The Blazer EV’s charging experience is enhanced by its tech-forward approach. The 17.7-inch infotainment screen, running Google built-in software, integrates Google Maps, which helps plan routes and locate charging stations (though it initially struggled to account for Tesla Superchargers). The myChevrolet app is a standout, offering real-time charging status, station locations, and payment options. Additionally, the vehicle supports over-the-air updates, ensuring software improvements can address issues like charging compatibility without a dealership visit. These features make charging intuitive, especially for new EV owners.
Home Charging Convenience
For most owners, home charging accounts for 80-90% of EV charging, and the Blazer EV excels here. Its 11.5-kW onboard charger is more powerful than competitors like the Toyota bZ4X, allowing a full charge in 9.5 to 11 hours on a Level 2 charger or 240-volt outlet. Chevrolet’s focus on home charging integration, combined with tips like pre-conditioning the cabin while plugged in to preserve battery range, makes daily charging seamless. The vehicle also supports regenerative braking, which recaptures energy during driving to extend range, further reducing reliance on frequent charging.
Table: Charging Specifications for 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS RWD
|
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Battery Capacity |
102 kWh |
|
EPA-Estimated Range |
334 miles |
|
Onboard Charger |
11.5 kW (Level 2) |
|
Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate |
190 kW |
|
Level 2 Charging Time |
9.5–11 hours (full charge) |
|
DC Fast Charging (10 min) |
Adds 87 miles of range |
|
Real-World Range (Tested) |
275 miles (MotorTrend) |
|
Charging Network Access |
Tesla Superchargers (via NACS adapter), Electrify America, 250,000+ public chargers |
|
Regenerative Braking |
Adjustable, supports one-pedal driving |
The Woes of Charging the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS RWD
Slower Charging Speeds
While the Blazer EV’s 190-kW peak DC fast-charging rate is respectable, it lags behind competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which averages 186 kW from 5 to 80% on a 350-kW charger compared to the Blazer’s 111 kW. The Ioniq 5 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, while the Blazer takes 46 minutes for 5 to 80%. The Blazer also struggles to sustain its peak rate, dropping off after the first 15 minutes, which can extend charging times on long trips. This makes it less competitive for drivers prioritizing ultra-fast charging.
Awkward Charge Port Placement
A notable design flaw is the charge port’s location on the driver’s side front fender. While visually sleek, it’s less practical for certain charging stations, particularly Tesla Superchargers designed for Tesla vehicles with rear or rear-side ports. MotorTrend noted that Tesla’s V3 Supercharger cables, optimized for Tesla’s port placement, can be cumbersome to align with the Blazer’s front port, requiring careful positioning to avoid strain on the cable or adapter. This issue, while minor, can frustrate drivers at busy stations.
Power-Off Alerts During Charging
One of the more aggravating quirks is the Blazer EV’s tendency to threaten powering off during fast-charging sessions. MotorTrend reported that during a 47-minute session at a Tesla Supercharger, the vehicle alerted them twice to press a button or the brake pedal to keep it “awake,” or it would disable charging and air conditioning. This inactivity timer, likely designed to conserve energy, feels unnecessary during charging and disrupts the hands-off experience EV drivers expect. Reddit users echoed this annoyance, noting it as a minor but persistent issue.
Tesla Supercharger Compatibility Challenges
While access to Tesla’s Supercharger network is a boon, it’s not without hiccups. The Blazer EV relies on a $225 GM-approved NACS adapter to use Tesla chargers, adding a small cost and an extra step compared to native Tesla vehicles. Additionally, not all Supercharger stations are optimized for non-Tesla EVs, with some having short cables or layouts that make plugging in awkward. MotorTrend’s Tucson road trip highlighted that the native Google Maps software didn’t initially account for Tesla Superchargers in route planning, though this is likely fixable via software updates. These compatibility issues remind drivers that the Supercharger network was designed with Tesla vehicles in mind.
Software and Reliability Concerns
The Blazer EV’s charging experience is tied to its software, which has had a rocky history. Early 2024 models faced widespread issues, including charging-related glitches, prompting Chevrolet to issue a stop-sale for software updates. While the 2025 model has resolved many of these problems, MotorTrend noted that the charging system still feels like a “moving target” for refinement. For example, the inability to sustain peak charging rates and occasional software hiccups in the infotainment system can affect route planning and charging station integration. These issues, while not dealbreakers, detract from an otherwise polished experience.
Balancing the Joys and Woes
The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS RWD strikes a strong balance between range, technology, and convenience, making it a compelling choice for EV buyers. Its 334-mile range, access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, and user-friendly app integration make charging stress-free for most scenarios, from daily commutes to cross-country trips. The ability to charge at home with a robust 11.5-kW onboard charger further simplifies ownership, fitting seamlessly into most drivers’ routines.
However, the Blazer EV isn’t without its flaws. Slower charging speeds compared to rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, an awkwardly placed charge port, and annoying power-off alerts during charging highlight areas for improvement. Compatibility challenges with Tesla Superchargers, while surmountable, underscore that non-Tesla EVs are still adapting to a network built for another brand. Software refinements are also needed to fully optimize the charging experience, particularly for route planning and sustained charging performance.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS RWD is a strong contender in the electric SUV market, offering a blend of style, range, and technology that makes charging mostly a joy. Its ability to leverage Tesla’s Supercharger network and its robust home charging capabilities set it apart, while its 334-mile range ensures confidence on long drives. However, quirks like the charge port placement, slower charging speeds, and software-related annoyances remind us that EV technology is still evolving. For buyers seeking a versatile and stylish electric SUV, the Blazer EV RS RWD is a solid choice, but it’s worth test-driving competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Ford Mustang Mach-E to ensure it meets your needs. As Chevrolet continues to refine its software and charging infrastructure, the Blazer EV has the potential to become an even stronger player in the EV landscape.
