Tesla Model Y vs Chevrolet Equinox EV: Who Copied Whom?
This page is translated from the original post "Tesla Model Y vs Chevrolet Equinox EV : qui a copié l’autre ?" in French.
- 01/05/2025 13:11
Here are two designs for the USA-made electric SUV with a striking design: one technological and expensive, the other pragmatic and affordable.
Which one is right? It’s hard to say at this point, because electric vehicles, like in Europe, are so far still largely the domain of fairly wealthy social classes. Therefore, whether paying a high price or taking advantage of a company-paid company car, most would choose a Tesla. But once more modest families are forced to switch to electric (which isn’t their current priority…), they will prioritize lower prices.
This is the motto of General Motors with its Chevrolet Equinox EV, which oddly resembles the new Tesla Model Y. However, here’s the thing: the Equinox was introduced in 2022 and launched in 2024. Therefore, it is easy to claim that Tesla copied its “public” competitor.
Of course, if we look at sales volumes, Tesla is much stronger: 320,000 units sold in 2024 in the United States, compared to 46,000 for the Equinox over the 6 months of its sales period. But competition is fiercer among mainstream manufacturers. Despite that, the success is evident with an immediate 35% market share of the electric SUV segment in the US!
What is the GM Equinox EV?
We know the Tesla Model Y Juniper very well, but not the Equinox EV on this side of the Atlantic. Produced in the Mexican factory in Ramos Arizpe, this SUV could face a tougher career due to the tariffs war initiated by the Trump administration in March 2025.
The Equinox is slightly smaller than the Tesla Model Y, which is reflected in its performance. Less cargo capacity (from 748 to 1,620 liters) and interior space. But the key argument is the price! Starting at $31,995, or €28,250. To that, you must still subtract the federal eco-bonus of $7,500, making the final price $24,495 or €21,600!
It’s cheaper than a basic Renault R5 here! Yet, it’s not a city car but a very spacious SUV with an EPA cycle range (more realistic than in Europe) of 319 miles or 513 km from the base LT1 version.
This is a front-wheel-drive vehicle with a power of 164 kW (220 hp), powered by an 85 kWh battery. Charging peaks at 150 kW on DC fast chargers and 11.5 kW on AC chargers. Other more powerful, better equipped versions, and even those with all-wheel drive, are available in the catalog.
Oh, and a final tasty detail: GM Equinox EVs are compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network in North America. Be careful not to confuse them…
We also suggestthese articles:
Also read
