Chevy’s electrifying Silverado EV is stepping up its game with a trick borrowed from its GMC sibling but with a twist that gives it a signature Chevy flair.
Named Sidewinder Mode (because “CrabWalk” was already a GMC thing), this nifty feature lets the Silverado strut diagonally at speeds up to 20 mph. It’s like your truck suddenly found the confidence to moonwalk through tight spots, thanks to some clever rear-wheel steering.
Here’s a look at why Sidewinder Mode is more than just a fun gimmick and could be a game-changer for certain driving scenarios.
What’s the Deal with Sidewinder Mode?
To break it down, Sidewinder Mode enables all four wheels of the Silverado EV to turn in the same direction, effectively allowing the truck to move diagonally. Sound familiar?
CHECK THIS OUT! Please check out the Chevrolet Silverado EV forum here; https://silveradoevtalk.com/ and Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chevrolet.silverado.ev/
GMC’s Hummer EV introduced this feature as CrabWalk, and now Chevy is bringing its own flavor to the mix. Whether you’re trying to squeeze into a narrow parking spot or shimmy your way around obstacles on an off-road trail, Sidewinder Mode has you covered.
Activating it is straightforward: just tap into the Silverado’s infotainment system, hit the Rear Steering page under Controls, and select Sidewinder Mode.
Once activated, the display graphics and a confirmation message in the instrument cluster make sure you’re ready for diagonal fun.
Standard on the 2025 Silverado RST, and Rolling Out to 2024 Models
If you’re one of the lucky folks snagging a 2025 Silverado EV RST, Sidewinder Mode comes standard. But 2024 Silverado EV RST First Edition owners don’t have to feel left out—an over-the-air update in early 2025 will bring Sidewinder to those models as well.
Chevy’s extending this to trucks both on dealer lots and already in customers’ hands, so everyone gets a taste of this innovative steering trick.
So, what makes Sidewinder Mode so interesting? For one, it’s not just a parlor trick. Imagine having to navigate crowded urban areas, airport drop-off lanes, or even tricky parking scenarios where maneuvering space is tight.
This mode has practical applications beyond just turning heads at EV meetups.
Expanding Range and Options in 2025
Sidewinder Mode isn’t the only big update for the 2025 Silverado EV lineup. Chevy has fine-tuned the range, bumping the base WT model up to 492 miles and the RST trim to a respectable 460 miles with the new Max Range battery pack.
They’ve also added a mid-tier LT trim for those who want a balance of features and cost without diving into the RST’s premium territory.
In terms of off-road potential, a rugged Trail Boss version is rumored for the 2025 lineup, though it may not appear until 2026. If the Trail Boss does materialize, it’s a safe bet that Sidewinder Mode will be a featured capability, making it even easier to navigate rough trails.
The GM Family of Diagonal Driving Modes
General Motors seems to have found a signature move with this type of four-wheel steering. The Hummer EV kicked it off with CrabWalk, which quickly became a standout feature.
Next up, Cadillac’s version—Arrival Mode—is set to debut on the Cadillac Escalade IQ. By introducing Sidewinder on the Silverado EV, Chevy keeps the innovation in-house but with a name and branding suited to the Silverado’s image.
The “Sidewinder” name isn’t just clever marketing. It’s a callback to the agile sidewinder snake, known for moving sideways across sandy landscapes. This reference adds a rugged and trail-ready vibe, which seems right at home on a Chevy truck.
Is Sidewinder Mode Just a Party Trick?
While some might see diagonal driving as a novelty, GM owners with this feature beg to differ. For example, one Hummer EV owner shared that CrabWalk mode saved time while navigating through congested drop-off lines at JFK Airport.
With Sidewinder Mode, you could glide into place without the usual back-and-forth dance most trucks require. In other words, Sidewinder isn’t just fun—it’s a practical feature that’s ready to shine when things get tight.
Charge Complete
The 2025 Chevy Silverado EV’s Sidewinder Mode adds a clever twist to GM’s four-wheel steering innovation.
With practical uses for urban driving, off-roading, and tight spots alike, Sidewinder isn’t just about showing off—it’s about making life a little easier, one sideways move at a time.
