Prices drop on glitchy Blazer EV after Chevy lifts stop-sale orders

After several owners and reviewers reported serious problems with the vehicle’s software, including blank infotainment screens and error warnings while charging, Chevy removed the stop-sale order placed on the Blazer EV last December.

Chevy released a software upgrade for the Blazer EV that it claims should address the issues and offer some improvements. In addition, Chevy declared that the Blazer EV will be eligible for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit with the restart of sales, as well as a price reduction of an average of $5,900.

Chevy Vice President Scott Bell stated in a statement, “We are excited to have the Chevrolet Blazer EV available again, this time with a compelling price, enhanced features and functionality, and qualifying for the full consumer tax credit.”

The issues initially emerged when several reviewers claimed to have had issues practically right away after obtaining their Blazer EVs. For example, Edmunds reported that after only one trip from Los Angeles to San Diego, their Blazer “went from perfectly fine to totally on the fritz.” And after just 28 hours of driving the Blazer EV, InsideEVs’ Kevin Williams reported that his infotainment screen went completely blank and that an attempt to charge the car failed.

Chevy stated that these and other issues with the Blazer EV should be resolved by its software upgrade, and it intends to apply the modifications to GM’s other electric cars as well. The automaker—which also owns GMC, Buick, and Cadillac—has had multiple setbacks in releasing its Ultium-branded electric vehicles, primarily because of issues with software and batteries. Other clients have also mentioned experiencing technical issues with their non-Blazer cars.

Chevy will reduce the price of the Blazer EV to sweeten the deal following the prolonged delay. The selling price of the LT AWD variant, which was formerly $56,715, will now be $50,195, including destination fees. The price of the RS AWD has been reduced from $60,215 to $54,595. Also, the price of the RS RWD has dropped from $61,790 to $56,170.

When the Blazer LT FWD, the most affordable model, goes on sale later this year, it will start at “under $50,000.” When the models go on sale, Chevy claims to release the precise pricing as well as the rates for the RS FWD SS variants.

Additionally, the Blazer EV is eligible for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit, which is available to new customers at the dealership beginning of this year. This will result in the LT AWD variant of the Blazer being as cheap as $42,695.

It’s obvious that Chevy is expecting the higher prices will help offset the negative publicity that the car’s multiple flaws caused for several months. Deals are undoubtedly in demand right now, with many consumers trying to find the ideal price to make the switch from gas to electric easier. However, the Blazer EV will face challenges in overcoming these worries; ideally, the car can maintain its strength as it climbs.