There’s no shortage of interesting features when it comes to the GMC Hummer EV, with GM packing in the high-tech goodies for added comfort, convenience, and off-road capability. One of the more interesting features on offer is CrabWalk mode, which enables the all-electric Hummer to move diagonally thanks to the onboard four-wheel steering. The real question, though, is this – does anyone actually use CrabWalk mode?
CrabWalk mode has been a standout feature for the all-electric Hummer EV since the battery-driven off-roader’s launch for the 2022 model year. Essentially, the system leverages the onboard four-wheel steering system to point the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels, enabling the Hummer to move sideways – like a crab. The four-wheel steering also grants the Hummer EV greater low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability, while CrabWalk mode is framed as a means of maneuvering the rig through tight spaces.
Notably, the feature will make it to other GM vehicles, as well. Per previous GM Authority coverage, the 2025 Chevy Silverado EV is poised to offer Sidewinder mode, which is essentially identical to CrabWalk mode in terms of function, giving Chevy Silverado EV drivers “a new way to conquer everything from rugged terrain to tight parking spaces.”
Even so, it raises a question – does anyone actually use CrabWalk mode?
While the diagonal movement capabilities certainly look cool (and there are plenty of videos out there that can attest to that), the actual usability and practicality of CrabWalk model is somewhat uncertain. Whether or not anyone can actually leverage it to maneuver down tight trails or around obstacles remains, so far at least, more of a marketing gimmick than a real tool for off-roading.
Not that it isn’t an effective party trick. Watching the GMC Hummer EV move diagonally down a paved road, the all-electric rig demands even more attention, and does well to justify its high-tech cred.
That said, we want to know – does anyone actually use this feature in the real world? Let us know by voting in the poll below, and make sure to post a comment outlining just how often this mode is actually used!
Comments
The vehicle itself is a gimmick. If you think you are saving the environment with over 9,000 lbs of materials that were pulled from the Earth and processed, you are delusional. It’s one of the most ridiculous status symbols ever created.
I prefer the Quadrasteer on my 2004 Sierra Denali. Very useful.
I think I’ve figured out why the HUMMERev has not met with huge success.
Like the new “gm” logo, they have managed to reduce a bold and aggressive image, like “GM” and the HUMMER H1 to a smoothed out, rounded and nondescript, “looks like all the others” appearance offering little to zero excitement and exclusivity.
Agreed. You just described the modern auto industry.
It’s a $90k+ vehicle. How many did you think they would sell? A million a year?
Stupidest thing that I have ever seen.
GM is going NUTS.
Firstly. I love my Hummer EV. It’s awesome to drive, smooth, fast and fun. I don’t care about how “inefficient” it is. Drive one-it’s waaaay better than the Cybertruck and more character than a Rivian.
Crabwalk is a useless gimick. It’s not instant and the delay makes it untrustworthy for any practical use. The real wheel steering though is killer. I drive it like a jeep in parking lots because the turn radius is so tight for such a big vehicle.
Mr. Wick is correct. I have a Sierra Denali EV and have not found an instance where I needed to use the Crabwalk feature.
But the four wheel steering is phenomenal.
I use it fairly consistently when I back it into my single bay garage. Since the wall clearance is out 1.5 inches on each side, angle of attack matters and I have to hit the garage lip at 90 degrees. So if the camera lines tell me I’m at 90 but the truck is to far over tonthe left or right, I crabwalk that puppy so the rear stays at 90. Works like a charm every time.