Max range of 2025 GMC Sierra EV in rural Maine areas reaches 550 miles, according to the owner, but on interstates, the range decreases to 440 miles when traveling at 79 mph with a tow load of 9000 lbs.
In a recent cross-country journey of over 1,500 miles, the 2025 GMC Sierra EV Max Range proved to be a reliable and capable electric vehicle (EV) for various terrains, from red clay backroads to moose-ridden backwoods. However, the reliability of the charging networks along the way was a crucial factor in the success of the trip.
Based on user experiences and reported reliability, Tesla's Supercharger network emerged as the most dependable and convenient option for long-distance EV road trips, particularly for Tesla owners. Known for high reliability, fast charging speeds, and ease of use, Tesla has one of the largest networks, with over 17,740 fast-charging ports in the U.S. as of early 2024, making up about 62% of the country's DC fast charging capacity.
Stations are strategically placed for long-distance travel, making it ideal for road trips. Tesla drivers benefit from a seamless experience, including plug-and-charge functionality and integrated route planning for charging stops. Reports indicate a 96% uptime rate, significantly higher than other networks.
For non-Tesla drivers, CCS-based networks such as Electrify America, EVgo, ChargePoint, and Blink offer more station locations overall. However, these networks have lower uptime rates (~72.5% in certain regions) and occasional maintenance issues reported by users, which can affect reliability on long trips. Joining multiple CCS networks and using their apps can improve access but requires more planning than Tesla’s integrated system.
During the road trip, the 2025 GMC Sierra EV Max Range delivered a real-world range of 550 miles in Maine and 440 miles on interstates at 79 mph. The vehicle's efficiency varied by geography and mission, with higher efficiency on smooth, scenic byways and lower efficiency on interstates. The Sierra EV, when properly equipped, can tow up to 9,000 lb while delivering over 500 km of usable range in real-world tests.
The road trip also highlighted some challenges with hotel overnight charging, which was variable, with some being plug-and-play, others requiring on-the-spot account creation, and some not working at all. EVGo was impressive but at a premium price point. The Rivian Adventure Network earned high marks for user experience and strategic placement in scenic corridors.
In conclusion, for reliable long-distance EV road trips, Tesla’s Supercharger network is generally regarded as the most dependable and convenient, especially for Tesla owners. Non-Tesla drivers should consider multiple CCS networks but may face more challenges in uptime and availability, so planning and flexibility are essential.
- The 2025 GMC Sierra EV Max Range performed well across different terrains, but the reliability of charging networks was crucial for a successful long-distance journey.
- Tesla's Supercharger network, known for its high reliability, fast charging speeds, and ease of use, is the most dependable and convenient option for long-distance electric vehicle (EV) road trips, especially for Tesla owners.
- For non-Tesla drivers, networks like Electrify America, EVgo, ChargePoint, and Blink offer more station locations, but they have lower uptime rates and occasional maintenance issues, which may affect reliability on long trips.
- The efficiency of electric vehicles, such as the Sierra EV, can vary by geography and mission, with higher efficiency on smooth, scenic byways and lower efficiency on interstates.
