Chevrolet Sales Still Haven’t Recovered From Q4 2020
Automotive sales will naturally hit highs and lows, but a downturn that lasts for years is always going to be a major concern for an automaker. And in that regard, Chevrolet is likely already chewing off its figurative fingernails. Despite a slight turnaround recently, the company is still trying to get back to its numbers in 2020.
Recent Chevy sales still trail 2020 figures
Chevrolet sold over 522,000 models for the fourth quarter of 2020, according to GM Authority, but the brand hasn’t been able to match that figure yet. Chevy’s Q4 sales for 2021—since its only reasonable to compare sales year-over-year for the same quarter—were nearly halved to 288,000 units.
In the fourth quarter of 2022, Chevy sales rebounded sharply to 413,560 units. However, the number of units moved still represented a 26% decrease over Q4 2020 figures.
It remains to be seen if Chevy can again surpass the 500,000 unit mark in the final months of this year, but the brand’s updates since the winter of 2020 can certainly help drive the resurgence if it’s in the cards.
The Silverado EV could lead a resurgence
Not all car buyers are ready to make the transition to electric power, but Chevrolet is certainly lining up options who are ready to take the plunge, particularly with General Motors’ Ultium EV platform.
Leading the charge for Chevy will be the electric version of its long-time sales leader, the Silverado. The 2024 Silverado EV is set to hit dealerships later this year with a manufacturer-claimed max driving range of 400 miles, 754 horsepower, and 10,000 pound-towing capacity (among its different guises). It will also sport unique features like the Multi-Flex Midgate, a pass-through system enabling a total bed length of nearly 11 feet.
The Silverado EV will have to compete with the likes of the Ford F-150 Lightning, the Rivian R1T, and the Tesla Cybertruck (should it ever actually make it into production),but Chevy offering pickups for those who want to make the electric switch and other who aren’t ready could serve to increase the brand’s overall sales.
The Ultium platform will serve as the basis for the upcoming Blazer EV midsize electric sedan and its performance-oriented SS version. The Equinox EV, the all-electric counterpart to the midsize SUV, is also expected to arrive at dealers later this year.
Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV will continue to drive Chevy sales, though the brand recently announced it was killing off the models, the cheapest EVs on sale today, for production of the Silverado EV.
Model updates could also increase Chevy’s numbers
Chevy’s entry-level EV is headed for automotive nameplate graveyard, but its two small crossovers will be far more appealing when their 2024 iterations go on sale this year.
The Trailblazer subcompact crossover is refreshed for 2024 with updated and rugged styling with upgraded technology. The entre-level Trax is also new for 2024 with a more athletic appearance, larger dimensions for added practicality and additional standard features.
Neither of these models are standouts in the subcompact crossover segment, but with more attractive styling and other key revisions, they may find more appeal among buyers.
That will be required if Chevy is to surpass its Q4 sales for the first time in three years.