GMC releases video of Hummer EV’s crazy ‘Watts to Freedom’ launch mode

The GMC Hummer EV is shaping up to be a very exciting battery electric vehicle, with the American automaker revealing footage of its new pick-up trying out launch mode.

Called ‘Watts to Freedom’, or WTF for short, the amusing-sounding launch control system offers up some serious performance.

All three of the Hummer’s electric motors, powered by GM’s Ultium technology, are primed in the bespoke sprint mode and channelled through the car’s AWD system for an experience of “intensity and drama for drivers and passengers”.

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GMC claims, despite the car’s circa-three tonne kerb weight, the gargantuan pick-up can sprint from 0-60mph (98km/h) in around three seconds – or roughly the same as a 992 Porsche 911 Carrera S.

“Watts to Freedom unlocks the full potential of the propulsion system and puts all of its available power to the pavement,” Al Oppenheiser, Hummer EV's chief engineer, said.

“It’s an all-encompassing experience unlike anything else – purpose-built for straight-line fun.”

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When WTF mode is engaged, a series of “pre-launch” features are displayed in the pick-up’s interior, communicating to occupants the g-force onslaught they’re about to encounter.

Custom screen animations are displayed, featuring graphics reading: “WATTS TO FREEDOM ARMED and “FLOOR IT”. Unique sounds are also played through the Bose audio system, and a countdown begins.

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The theatricality of the interior is accompanied by the vehicle’s adaptive air suspension hunkering down close to the tarmac, dropping the ride height by a full two inches to ensure the car’s centre of gravity is as low as possible.

Once the driver releases the brake pedal, a g-force meter on the digital dash indicates to the driver just how hard gravity is forcing them back into their seat.

“It’s an amazing demonstration of just how fast 1000 horsepower and 11,500 lb-ft of electric propulsion can move you,” Oppenheiser said. “It’ll put a smile on your face every single time.”