EV REVIEW: EVERY ELECTRIC VEHICLE THAT DEBUTED IN US SHOWROOMS IN 2023

EV Channels Review

The podcast episode delves into the electric vehicles that debuted in US showrooms in 2023, with a significant focus on the Rivian R1T's Max Pack. The review highlights the controversial $10,000 price increase for the Max Pack, which offers only a modest real-world range improvement of approximately 22 miles (around 7%) over the large pack, achieved through a minor battery chemistry upgrade. Despite Rivian's initial concerns about the tested truck's performance, extensive testing confirmed the battery's capacity and efficiency matched expectations, leading to the publication of the results. The discussion also touches upon the potential for the Max Pack to be more efficient in city driving due to a possible silicon carbide inverter on the rear motor, though this remains theoretical. The episode criticizes the EPA's inconsistent testing methods and the lack of transparency in range comparisons. Additionally, the BMW i5 and i7 are reviewed positively for their luxury, comfort, and impressive driver assistance systems, with the i7 being lauded as a superior iteration of the 7 Series. A significant portion of the discussion also addresses the widespread issues with public EV charging infrastructure, illustrated by a disastrous road trip experience with a Volvo C40, which ultimately led the owner to trade it in for a gasoline vehicle, underscoring the current limitations hindering EV adoption.