Silent Recall: 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV Owners Faced with Unexpected Update

A Quieter Ride, But at a Price: 2025 Chevy Equinox EVs Recalled for Non-Compliant Pedestrian Sounds

When it comes to noise pollution from vehicles, it’s usually the loud mufflers, honking, and alarm systems that get attention. However, for General Motors, the problem with their latest 2025 Chevrolet Equinox electric vehicles (EVs) is quite the opposite: they might be too quiet.

A Quiet Conundrum

As part of the automotive industry’s ongoing effort to reduce emissions and noise pollution, many countries have implemented regulations to require electric vehicles (EVs) to emit artificial noise at lower speeds to alert pedestrians. In the United States, for instance, all new EVs and hybrids must produce sounds when operating under 18.6 miles per hour. This is to help protect pedestrians, especially the visually impaired, from approaching vehicles.

Recall Alert: 7,606 Chevrolet Equinox EVs Fail to Meet Minimum Sound Requirements

General Motors has issued a voluntary recall affectin 7,606 units of the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV, citing concerns that their vehicles may not meet minimum sound requirements for pedestrian safety. This means that some Equinox EVs might not produce enough noise to alert pedestrians, potentially putting them at risk.

What’s Causing the Issue?

The problem lies in the vehicles’ electric propulsion system, which is much quieter than traditional internal combustion engines. As a result, the vehicles may not meet the minimum sound standards, making it difficult for pedestrians to determine whether an approaching vehicle is speeding up or slowing down, increasing the risk of injury.

Resolving the Issue: Software Calibration Updates

General Motors is working to resolve this issue by rolling out a software calibration update to affected vehicles, which will be notified starting in January 2025. This update will ensure that the vehicles meet federal safety standards, making it easier for pedestrians to avoid any potential dangers.

Background and Impact

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV was introduced in October, with over 15,000 units sold in the third quarter alone. GM has priced the model at $35,000, making it the most affordable EV in the U.S. market.

Timeline and Action Plan

Recalled vehicles will undergo a software calibration fix to address the issue. This may include adjusting or recalibrating the vehicles’ audio systems to produce the necessary sounds. Owners will be notified of the recall in January 2025.

Conclusion: The Price of a Quieter Ride

The recall serves as a reminder that, in the quest for a quieter ride, the consequences of underwhelming sounds can be significant. While electric vehicles offer numerous benefits, it’s crucial to balance these advantages with the need for increased awareness on the road. For General Motors, it’s a matter of meeting safety standards while navigating the evolving landscape of electric vehicle technology.