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Say goodbye to one of the favorite features in the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, and GMC Yukon. The ongoing semiconductor shortage is taking its toll on the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and other SUVs by taking some of our most desired tech away. 

The 2021 Chevy Tahoe loses its wireless charger 

A white 2021 Chevy Tahoe driving at dusk
2021 Chevy Tahoe | Chevrolet

The 2021 Chevy Tahoe, Suburban, and GMC Yukon are brand new for this model year, so you would expect them to have the most advanced tech features. However, the global chip shortage is taking its toll on these SUVs. 

As a result, the Tahoe, Suburban, and Yukon are dropping the wireless phone charging pads. This may not be an issue for some, but being able to climb into an SUV and put your phone down to charge without a wire is life-changing. 

It’s incredibly convenient to get in and go without having to plug anything in or keep up with a cord. If you spend $60,000 to $80,000 on a vehicle, then you want it to have all the bells and whistles, right? 

Does the lack of wireless charging provide savings? 

If you get a 2021 Chevy Tahoe model without the wireless charging pad, then you’ll save a whole $75. But it will probably cost more than $75 to add wireless charging later if it becomes possible. 

However, if you need the wireless charging pad, check the vehicle’s sticker as you browse your options. Models produced after July 12, 2021, will not have it. Also, not every trim level offers this feature. Talk to your dealer and let them know that this feature is essential to you.

The wireless charger isn’t the only feature affected by the semiconductor shortage. 2021 General Motors vehicles already dropped the HD radio on some models. The auto start/stop feature in some Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra models was dropped, too, creating a loss of one mpg. 

Auto manufacturers are doing what they can to conserve their supply of semiconductor chips. For example, Jeep shut down factories for their less profitable models like the Jeep Cherokee to focus on building more popular models such as the new Jeep Grand Cherokee L. 

Ford continued with the production of some models, like the F-150, but stored them nearby. The chips will be added to these models once they become available. Vehicle delays could remain for the next few months. The global chip shortage is expected to slowly improve by the fall, but shortages may last into 2022. 

What’s new for the 2021 Tahoe? 

2021 Chevy Tahoe tech
2021 Chevy Tahoe tech | Chevrolet

The 2021 Chevy Tahoe is still an excellent option to consider without the beloved wireless charging pad. It has an all-new exterior and interior with significant improvements. The three-row SUV is now larger to provide more cargo and passenger space. Plus, the new Tahoe rides on an independent rear suspension for a more comfortable ride. 

With the 5.7-liter V8 engine, you get 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. You can upgrade to the 6.2-liter V8 engine for 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Also, the new 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine provides 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, the Tahoe can tow up to 8,400 lbs. 

Even without the wireless charger, the Tahoe is still filled with tech. It comes with a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The optional rear-seat entertainment system includes two mounted 12.6-inch displays.

While we’re sad about the semiconductor shortage and the lack of wireless charging pads, it’s probably not a deal-breaker. The 2021 Tahoe still has enough advanced tech and premium improvements to be worth buying.

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