Don’t call it crab walk – Chevy Silverado EV packs new ‘Sidewinder’ 4 wheel steering

Whether it’s the Rivian “Tank Turn,” GMC Hummer “Crab Walk,” or the Mercedes G Wagen’s “G-turn,” it seems like every EV brand has their own idea of what to call their vehicle’s four-wheel steering tricks. Now, Chevy’s joining the name game with their own trademark term: Sidewinder.

Standard on the new 2025 Silverado EV RST model, Sidewinder is just one of RST’s four-wheel steering modes, and allows all four wheels to turn in the same direction and move the truck diagonally at speeds up to 20 mph. Chevy says the new feature, “selectable from the infotainment screen, “gives drivers a new way to conquer everything from rugged terrain to tight parking spaces.”

Activated using a series of taps in the Rear Steering section of the Controls menu of the Chevy Silverado EV RST’s infotainment screen, Sidewinder mode even triggers a distinctive animation on the dash to help set the mood, and alert drivers to the fact that things are about to go sideways … but, like, on purpose.

Setting the mood is critical

The new Silverado EV RST trim joins the fleet-focused, 400+ mile range Silverado EV WT and LTs available now at Chevy dealers. The RST is available with with two different battery pack options and offers a maximum estimated range of up 460 miles on a full charge.

That range – along with the Silverado’s 12,500 lb. towing and 1800 lb. payload – is something GM execs are very proud of. “Truck customers tell us range is one of the main barriers to considering an EV. The 2024 Silverado EV was already the range leader, and for this new model year, we’ve set the bar even higher,” said James Hodge, Brand Director, Chevrolet Canada. “This increased capability and accessibility is great news for the segment, the industry, and the brand.”

Electrek’s Take

EV built from ICE vehicle platforms are always exercises in compromise – at least, that’s what fans of Tesla’s all EVs, all the time approach have pointed out over the last decade or so of electric vehicle production. With specs and capabilities like Sidewinder, and slowing demand for a converted ICE platform like Ford’s F-150 Lightning, GM’s Ultium-based Silverado seems to be proving that point all over again.

Chevy Silverado EVs are still available with 0% financing at several Chevy dealers in the US and Canada; click here to find additional incentives and discounts near you.

SOURCE | IMAGES: GM.