PODCAST: RIVIAN EV OF YEAR, FIRST EARNINGS, HYUNDAI IONIQ 5 PRICE, HUMMER EV DELIVERIES, AND MORE

EV Channels Review

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into significant developments in the EV space, with a strong focus on Rivian. The R1T is lauded as Electrek's 2021 Vehicle of the Year, praised for its impressive first-generation execution, high-quality fit and finish, and compelling features like a large frunk, integrated speaker, and a luxurious interior. While acknowledging minor criticisms such as weight and occasional software sluggishness, the review highlights the R1T's strong performance both on-road and off-road. The podcast also covers Rivian's first earnings report, noting substantial losses but also a significant cash reserve post-IPO and strong reservation growth. The planned second factory in Georgia is discussed as a strategic, albeit capital-intensive, move. The discussion then shifts to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, with its pricing revealed to be competitive, starting under $40,000 for the standard range RWD model, offering a compelling alternative to the Tesla Model 3. The Kia EV6's EPA range figures are also presented, suggesting it may offer slightly better efficiency. Finally, the episode touches on GM's Hummer EV deliveries, the teaser for the GMC Sierra Denali EV, Toyota's vague EV strategy including a pickup concept, John Deere's acquisition of Kreisel Electric, a Tesla Model S prototype with a CCS port, and the expansion plans for Gigafactory Texas. The Build Back Better bill's uncertain future and its impact on EV tax credits are also mentioned.