Test bench | GMC Hummer EV SUV: the green giant

(Napa Valley, California) Beware of appearances. The green of her dress announces nothing. The new Hummer emits no CO₂but remains just as excessive as before.

Eric LeFrancois

special cooperation

Excess

The retro tropism that drives some manufacturers is perhaps the shortest way to re-enchant the automobile. For GMC, bringing the Hummer back to life probably makes it easier to sell the zero-emission conversion to customers who are still convinced “that it was much better before”.

Electrifying the car fleet is not enough. Rehabilitating performance, diversifying the offer and – why not – bringing back some of the glories of the past are also on the manufacturers’ agenda. As long as they have a story to tell. Renault revives the 5, Volkswagen, the Microbus (ID.Buzz). And GMC, the Hummer. Nostalgia has gained confidence in this era of transition. It happens to her that she adorns herself with exoticism and, in this case, cultivates excess.

Some observers will see the Hummer’s return as a snub to the environmentalists who once attacked it so ardently. Others will see it as an unprecedented waste of energy. Which side are you on?

Up to three motors

A form of exhibitionism that was once not very well accepted, the Hummer redeems itself for driving. The social view of the eccentricities of this behemoth has changed, but only in appearance. We can be moved to the idea that it no longer emits CO₂ when driving, but this fact certainly does not make it a “clean” vehicle. Its production and that of its accumulators mobilize much more energy and raw materials than a petrol model. It is also necessary to take into consideration the source used to produce the electricity and the price thereof.

With its three thrusters and its huge battery (its power has still not been communicated by the manufacturer), this Hummer will remain for some a waste of resources.

Never mind, the Hummer still enjoys an incomparable aura. His intimidating physique has a lot to do with it. Square and provided with a generous clearance on the ground (it is literally necessary to climb on board), it exists in four variations, which are moved by two or three motors. The Edition 1 that is the subject of this test bed has three, like Tesla’s Model X Plaid, one of its rivals. One in the front and two in the back. All connected to a lithium-ion battery developed in collaboration with the South Korean LG Chem. General Motors does not disclose its net power, but it can easily be estimated at around 200 kW. In its current configuration, the Hummer allows a range of some 480 km and takes about eight hours to recharge on a level 2 terminal, claims its manufacturer.

How to shine on all terrains

First, we push the pedals to the floor. You press a button twice. Now hold on tight! We just release the brake and the Hummer then takes off like a rocket without leaving the ground! Three and a half seconds are enough to reach 100 km/h and keep a Porsche 911 GTS in check.

After a period of learning, you can stop driving with your eyes glued to the ends of your bonnet. This SUV is less apprehensive of city breaks than you might think. Its small turning circle makes you smile (a Chevrolet Bolt does no better) and the device that allows it to move like a crab leaves you speechless. A feature that is especially appreciated in the open air and on hostile terrain.

As long as you are not afraid of damaging it, the Hummer SUV wades with ease in the marshy paths. In addition, using its air suspension, this Hummer climbs to 404 mm of land to attack the slopes, climb the rocks, cross streams and face slopes.

We are shaken, tossed about, but we want more. The torque of the engine allows this “armored” to overcome all obstacles smoothly. To extricate yourself from a bad situation, a battalion of driving aids volunteers to help you.

In case of failure? No doubt, the problem is then between the seat and the steering wheel as the Hummer appears invulnerable.

Thoughtful handling, progressive braking (one-pedal driving possible) and efficient, the Hummer SUV inspires confidence as soon as you tame its size. Need a little more time? The semi-autonomous driving system (Super Cruise) allows you to avoid some of your responsibilities. And to better acclimatize you to the low height of the mirrors that surround it and the massiveness of the interior furniture. Both combine to create the illusion of being on board a Leopard 2. Or is it an Abrams?

However, it is difficult to be so understanding of the heavy rear leaf – luckily electrically assisted – which opens towards the sidewalk. What about this metal rib which hinders access to and exit from the rear seats? There are also those removable glass panels – all of which can be stored in the huge trunk up front – but handling them requires some physical strength. Finally, this Hummer will be criticized for its high noise level (hissing at the level of the exterior mirrors in particular) which is exacerbated by the “all-terrain” tires offered as an option.

The Hummer is not an everyday utility. However, its irritating elements will not deter those who fantasize about taking control of a tank.

Technical sheet

Engines

• Three electric motors
• Combined power: 830 hp
• Maximum torque: 1200 lb-ft
• Battery: 212 kWh (estimated)

Performance

• Weight: between 4103 kg and 4282 kg
• Ground clearance (maximum): 406 mm
• Towing capacity: 3402 kg

Gearbox

• Standard: automatic
• Optional: none
• Drive mode: all-wheel drive

Tires

Consumption

• 36.8 kWh/100 km (18″ wheel)

Refill

• Level 2: 8 hours (from 20% to 80% charge)
• Quick charge: 55 minutes (from 20% to 80% charge)

Dimensions

• Wheelbase: 3218mm
• Length: 4999.5mm¹
• Height: 1976mm
• Width: 1995mm²

1. Spare wheel excluded
2. Exterior mirrors included

An incentive to switch to electric

Hummer was a brand, now there are two models operating under the GMC banner. This subsidiary of General Motors is proud to distribute them since they attract customers who have never put their buttocks in a GMC (75%), or even in a GM (50%). Some 90,000 consumers have so far raised their hands to buy one. Against all expectations, the SUV is not a copy-paste of the pickup truck marketed last year. This one is even more imposing and occupies more space in the street. It is also more powerful and just as heavy as the SUV.

A question of modules

Like the pickup truck, the Hummer EV SUV is based on General Motors’ Ultium architecture. The most noticeable difference is the battery capacity. The latter consists of 24 cells on the van (independent to facilitate their replacement), compared to 20 for the SUV. As a result, the pickup produces more horsepower (1000 hp) and provides greater range (560 km, according to GM’s estimate).