The Chevrolet Camaro, a beloved muscle car since 1967, ceased production in December 2023. As of now, Chevrolet hasn’t provided clear details about the future of this iconic nameplate. However, General Motors president Mark Reuss has recently shared some intriguing ideas about an electrified Camaro, which notably differs from Ford’s approach with the Mustang Mach-E.
In an interview with Motor Trend, Reuss expressed his desire to see the Camaro name return to the U.S. market, but not as an electric crossover or SUV. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the Camaro’s legacy as a true pony car. This vision includes a focus on affordability and driver engagement rather than just high performance and track capabilities. Reuss wants the new Camaro to attract a broader audience, beyond just car enthusiasts, and retain a coupe-like appearance. It remains unclear if Chevrolet will consider a design similar to Dodge’s upcoming electric Charger, which features a “four-door coupe” layout.
Reuss also mentioned that an electric Camaro could be priced similarly to the current Equinox EV, which starts at $34,995. With the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, this would make the new Camaro about $5,000 cheaper than its gasoline-powered predecessor. However, this pricing model is still uncertain. Reuss noted that any potential electric Camaro is still some time away, as Chevrolet needs to expand its production capabilities for the Ultium powertrain. This electric powertrain is currently used in various GM vehicles, including the Equinox EV and the GMC Hummer EV.
The idea of a new Camaro excites many enthusiasts, especially since Reuss’s vision aligns with their desires for a genuine pony car. However, it will be some time before we see what GM has in store. Unlike Ford’s Mustang Mach-E, Reuss’s vision suggests that a revived Camaro would stay closer to its roots.
Even if the Camaro returns, it likely won’t be a traditional coupe. Considering the practicality and the low sales of two-door cars in the U.S. market, a four-door design seems more probable. Reuss envisions a coupe-like design that improves on the current Camaro’s poor outward visibility while still appealing to modern consumers.
Although production of the Camaro ended in December 2023, GM is unlikely to abandon the well-known and respected Camaro name. Many believe the nameplate will be revived by 2026, potentially as a crossover to compete with the Mustang Mach-E. However, Reuss’s comments suggest that the decision between a car and a crossover has not yet been finalized within GM.
The wait for the Camaro’s return might be longer than anticipated. The new EV would use the same Ultium powertrain platform as the Equinox EV and GMC Hummer EV. While these vehicles are already in production, GM needs to scale up battery production to reduce costs and make the new Camaro economically viable. Despite the potential delay, the prospect of an electrified Camaro is exciting, and many are hopeful that Reuss’s vision will come to fruition.