If I tried to list every feature I’d want in the ideal off-road vehicle, I still wouldn’t cover what the new GMC Hummer EV brings. It’s an astonishing machine—part luxury SUV, part high-tech trail rig—packed with capabilities that redefine expectations for an electric truck.
- 1,000 Horsepower
- Off-Road Abilities
- Grand Interior
I first caught a glimpse of the Hummer EV a few months back, but after seeing one in person and spending some time inside (while stationary), here are my initial impressions of the GMC Hummer EV electric truck.
1,000 Horsepower
Let’s begin with the headline figure: 1,000 horsepower. That output is extreme even for many supercars, and in a heavy, tech-packed SUV it translates into sensational acceleration and performance.
The Edition 1 model uses three electric motors to produce roughly 1,000 horsepower, delivering roughly 0–60 mph in about three seconds. Torque figures are equally dramatic and deliver an immediate shove the moment you press the accelerator. While official payload and towing ratings were not available at the time of my visit, estimates suggest the Hummer EV could tow in the neighborhood of 8,000–10,000 pounds.
Along with the staggering power comes a competitive driving range—expected in the area of 300 miles on a full charge—making this one of the more capable long-distance electric trucks available.
Off-Road Abilities
GMC equipped the Hummer EV with a long list of features geared toward off-road performance. While real-world trail reviews are still limited, the specifications and systems onboard suggest strong off-road potential.
A signature feature is “Extract Mode,” which raises the adaptive air suspension to provide up to six inches of additional ground clearance. That lift helps the vehicle clear large obstacles and reduces the chance of getting high-centered, protecting critical components like motors and battery packs—further safeguarded by a full armored skid plate. Rocker-panel sliders or steps are also fitted to protect the body; whether they’re attached to the frame or body wasn’t obvious at a glance.
Air suspension used in this manner is relatively uncommon. Some competitors offer adjustable ride height, but the Hummer EV’s range of adjustment is especially pronounced. The system should deliver a comfortable ride on washboards and rough fire roads, while also adapting to serious trail obstacles.
Perhaps the most eye-catching novelty is the Hummer EV’s “Crabwalk,” a diagonal driving mode enabled by four-wheel steering. All four wheels can turn up to 10 degrees in the same direction, allowing the truck to move diagonally—an impressive engineering feat. While useful in tight off-road scenarios or maneuvering around obstacles, this feature may be more of a showpiece than an everyday necessity for most owners.
Though Crabwalk is clever, it adds complexity and weight. Some buyers and modifiers might prefer a simpler setup to reduce potential maintenance concerns and save mass.
GMC selected robust tires as standard equipment—35-inch all-terrain tires come standard, with a factory upgrade path to 37-inch tires without requiring modifications. Full underbody armor is standard, which is essential for serious off-road use.
Visibility in a vehicle this large can be a challenge, so GMC introduced “Ultravision,” a comprehensive camera system that draws from 18 different cameras to provide underbody, side, front, and rear views. The result is excellent situational awareness when negotiating tight trail sections or tricky obstacles.
Notably absent on the vehicle I saw were an integrated winch and onboard air system—two features many overlanders and off-road enthusiasts consider essential. The Hummer EV does include large tow hooks and strong recovery points, however.
Grand Interior
The interior strikes a balance between capability and refinement. The cabin felt tasteful and modern rather than garish, with materials and design cues that give the Hummer EV a premium yet durable character—appropriate for a vehicle that’s equally at home on the boulevard and the trail.
This particular vehicle featured a striking snow-white interior that contrasts sharply with black trim and the dashboard. While the light upholstery may be prone to showing dirt in active use, it creates a crisp, high-end look. The screens are large and informative but don’t overwhelm the cabin layout.
Many familiar GMC touches remain, like the hidden rear seatback pocket found in the Sierra, and the overall layout carries a recognizably GMC feel—practical, solid, and thoughtfully arranged. The cabin is spacious; the front seats are separated by a wide center area, and the rear seat offers ample space for even the tallest adults.
Removing the modular Sky Panels opens the cabin to the sky and surroundings, enhancing the sense of openness and connection to the environment—an appealing feature for overland-style adventures or scenic drives.
The GMC Hummer EV Edition 1 was slated to arrive in the fall of 2021, with additional model variants scheduled to roll out in subsequent years. As production and deliveries progress, more real-world reviews and owner feedback will clarify how the Hummer EV performs on trails, long trips, and in day-to-day driving.
