GM’s Pioneering Midgate: A Significant Benefit for Opting for an EV Truck

GM's Pioneering Midgate: A Significant Benefit for Opting for an EV Truck

Over the course of a seven-day test drive of the 2026 GMC Sierra EV Denali Max Range, during which I covered hundreds of miles, I became well-acquainted with the truck’s advantages and disadvantages (outlined in the review linked above). Although I admired its luxury and performance, my favorite aspect had nothing to do with the engine—it was the MidGate Pro, the completely detachable rear wall of the cab.

This feature is available on the GMC Sierra EV and Chevrolet Silverado EV alike. It functions by retracting the rear glass and back wall of the cab, enabling you to transport extremely long items or simply enjoy outdoor air from a partially open cockpit.

Some of you may recall another duo of GM vehicles from previous generations, the Chevrolet Avalanche and Cadillac Escalade EXT, which also featured this capability. I confess that I didn’t mind it much when those vehicles first came out. But now that it has returned, I am genuinely excited.

An electric truck is particularly suitable for this feature because the cab and bed form one continuous body (whereas in traditional body-on-frame trucks, they are distinct). Additionally—no emissions, meaning no concerns about monoxide entering the cabin.

GM EV Truck MidGate

Having explained what a MidGate is, let’s quickly cover why GM’s implementation is effective.

  • Extremely easy, solo operation: Clearing any items you may have on the truck’s back seat takes longer than folding down the MidGate.
  • User-friendly: A small catch-nub firmly holds the glass while you release it, simplifying the process.
  • Self-contained: The seatback includes a compartment for the rear glass that becomes enclosed, so you won’t have to leave the glass behind—you can store it safely.
  • Drawback: cumbersome tonneau cover: The aspect I disliked most about the Sierra EV is the heavy hard tonneau cover that covers the bed. It needs to be removed to utilize the MidGate, and it’s quite unwieldy.

GM EV Truck MidGate Tour

The best video tutorial on using the MidGate is available here. It shows precisely how the system operates:

GMC Sierra EV Multipro Midgate. How to operate it?

For those interested in an in-depth look, I will provide an annotated detail gallery.

Practical Cargo Capacity

Taken from the review—here are the actual measurement distances I recorded, not merely manufacturer specifications:

  • Length of the truck bed, with tailgate closed:
  • Length of the truck bed including the tailgate used as a cargo floor, tailgate lowered:
  • “Usable max length,” midgate open, from the frontmost hard floor to the back end of the bed, tailgate closed:
    • 95″ (the length of actual cargo floor accessible by opening the midgate matches the tailgate’s length)
  • Same, but tailgate lowered:
  • Using all space behind the driver’s seat, through midgate, to the back of the bed, with tailgate closed:
  • Same, but tailgate lowered:
  • Longest item you could comfortably transport without inconveniencing the driver or front passenger or extending off the edge of the tailgate (item resting on center console):

Do you see the midgate as beneficial?

Since 2013, automotive journalist Andrew primarily oversees features, sponsored content, and cross-departmental initiatives at The Drive.


**GM’s Pioneering Midgate: A Notable Benefit for Selection of an EV Truck**

General Motors (GM) has progressed notably in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, especially with its innovative designs and functionalities in its electric trucks. One of the prominent features distinguishing GM’s EV trucks is the Midgate, a flexible design component that enhances utility and convenience for users.

### Understanding the Midgate

The Midgate is an exceptional feature that enables the seamless extension of the truck bed into the cabin space. This design allows users to carry larger items without compromising passenger room. By folding down the Midgate, drivers can significantly increase the cargo area, accommodating longer items such as lumber, bicycles, or outdoor equipment, rendering it perfect for both work and leisure activities.

### Benefits of the Midgate in EV Trucks

1. **Enhanced Flexibility**: The Midgate affords versatility absent in traditional truck designs. Users can effortlessly alternate between passenger transport and cargo hauling, making it apt for a variety of lifestyles and requirements.

2. **Expanded Cargo Capacity**: With the possibility of extending the bed into the cabin, the Midgate facilitates carrying larger loads without necessitating a trailer. This feature is particularly advantageous for individuals requiring additional room for tools, equipment, or recreational gear.

3. **Improved Aerodynamics**: The Midgate’s design can enhance aerodynamics while the truck is in motion. This quality can lead to better efficiency, which is essential for optimizing the range of electric vehicles.

4. **User-Friendly Functionality**: The Midgate is crafted for user convenience, enabling drivers to swiftly and effectively switch between configurations. This user-focused approach enriches the overall experience of owning an EV truck.

5. **Environmental Sustainability**: By encouraging the utilization of a single vehicle for multiple purposes, the Midgate supports sustainability initiatives. Users can diminish the necessity for additional vehicles, thus lowering their carbon emissions.

### The Future of Electric Trucks Featuring Midgate Technology

As the demand for electric trucks rises, GM’s Midgate technology establishes the company as an innovator within the EV market. The blend of practicality and advanced engineering illustrates GM’s dedication to fulfilling consumers’ diverse needs.

In summary, GM’s Midgate transcends being merely a design feature; it embodies a significant advantage for those contemplating an electric truck. By providing enhanced versatility, boosted cargo capacity, and user-friendly operation, the Midgate makes GM’s EV trucks an attractive option for both everyday users and those with specific needs. As the automotive landscape advances, innovations such as the Midgate will be fundamental in shaping the trajectory of electric transportation.