General Motors is reportedly discontinuing the gas-powered version of the Chevy Blazer, with plans to transition the model to electric-only, according to sources cited by GM Authority. The move marks a significant step in the company's ongoing shift towards electric vehicles, as it aims to expand its EV offerings and reduce its reliance on internal combustion engines.

The Chevy Blazer, a mid-sized SUV, has been assembled at GM's Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico, alongside the electric version of the vehicle. However, with the gas-powered Blazer reportedly being sunset with the 2025 model year, the facility is being retooled to accommodate electric vehicles exclusively. This change will make the Ramos Arizpe plant the first GM facility to produce only electric vehicles.

When reached for comment, a Chevy representative stated that "we have no portfolio changes to share and will not comment on speculation." However, the reported discontinuation of the gas-powered Blazer would mean that Chevy no longer carries a two-row combustion SUV in North America. The company still uses the Blazer nameplate for a three-row SUV in China.

The decision to discontinue the gas-powered Blazer is likely driven by declining sales. According to data, Chevy sold 52,576 Blazers in the US in 2024, a significant drop from the 94,599 units sold in 2020, when the then-2019 model year redesign was introduced. This decline in sales, combined with the growing demand for electric vehicles, may have contributed to GM's decision to shift its focus towards EVs.

The move is also part of GM's broader strategy to expand its electric vehicle offerings. The company has already introduced the Blazer EV, which shares GM's tailored EV platform (formerly called Ultium) with the Equinox EV and the Cadillac Optiq. Additionally, Honda's Prologue, which is essentially a rebadged Blazer EV, is built in the same plant as well.

This development is significant not only for GM but also for the broader automotive industry. As governments around the world implement stricter emissions regulations and consumers increasingly opt for environmentally friendly options, companies like GM are being forced to adapt and transition their product lines towards electric vehicles. The reported discontinuation of the gas-powered Blazer is a clear indication of this shift, and it will be interesting to see how other manufacturers respond to the changing landscape.

In conclusion, GM's decision to discontinue the gas-powered Chevy Blazer and shift focus towards electric vehicles marks a significant milestone in the company's transition towards a more sustainable future. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it will be crucial to monitor how companies like GM adapt to changing consumer preferences and regulatory requirements.