Chevrolet Silverado EV can now perform crabwalking

As part of a significant update for the 2025 model year, Chevrolet has added the Sidewinder mode to its Silverado EV. This feature enables the truck to move diagonally by turning all four wheels in the same direction, enhancing maneuverability in tight spots or challenging off-road terrain.

It’s a further example of how car makers are trying to increase the appeal of EVs by highlighting the specific benefits of the electric drive line.

The Sidewinder mode doesn’t come as a complete surprise, as several other General Motors offroaders already offer the functionality.

It operates similarly to GMC’s CrabWalk mode, which was initially showcased on the Hummer EV and later presented on the 2024 GMC Sierra EV. The Silverado shares the Ultium platform and powertrain with these models.

A unique advantage

The system allows the truck to steer all four wheels in unison, achieving diagonal movement at speeds up to 20 mph. The technology aims to improve ease of navigation in off-road situations and tight urban spaces, adding a unique advantage to the vehicle’s capabilities.

Activation is designed to be intuitive and accessible through the Silverado’s infotainment system. Drivers can enable it from the Rear Steering section in the Controls menu.

Selecting Sidewinder mode initiates an animated confirmation on the infotainment screen and the digital instrument cluster. This animation visually guides drivers and signals that Sidewinder mode is ready for use.

Playing into the trend

While the Silverado version may not carry the initial novelty of GMC’s CrabWalk launch, Chevrolet believes its practical applications—such as maneuvering around obstacles on trails or squeezing into compact parking spots—will resonate with Silverado EV drivers.

It also plays into EVs adopting unique, brand-specific four-wheel steering capabilities, joining names like Rivian’s “Tank Turn” and Mercedes’ “G-Turn.” However, in this application, the four e-motors make the vehicle turn around its axis for swift direction changes on loose terrain.

While the GM version keeps the wheels at an angle of up to 10 degrees—but no more—Hyundai has taken the technology to extremes. The eCorner technology from its research department, Hyundai Mobis, allows the wheels to turn completely sideways (almost 180 degrees), which makes parallel parking a breeze.

It also eliminates backing up, as you can spin the car to point the nose in the opposite direction. However, the Hyundai system has been demonstrated on a concept model of the Ioniq 5 only. Making it to series production would be the first example beyond offroaders. Still, it demands additional safety measures to warn others when the car is spinning or changing direction in an ‘unexpected fashion.’

Interestingly, the Sidewinder mode from Chevrolet will also be made available as an over-the-air update. It comes standard on the RST models, but qualifying 2024 models can also apply for it.