TRANSPORT EVOLVED NEWS EPISODE 491: RIVIAN + VOLKSWAGEN, USED EVS TO AVOID, PIKES PEAK FUN!

EV Channels Review

This episode of Transport Evolved News covers a wide array of industry developments, with the standout story being Volkswagen's significant $1 billion investment in Rivian, establishing a joint venture focused on software-defined vehicle platforms. The show also highlights the delay of the Volvo EX30's North American launch to 2025, a strategic move to avoid tariffs and optimize European production. Consumer Reports' list of used EVs to avoid, including specific models from Audi, Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Rivian, offers practical advice for buyers. Additionally, the episode touches on Fisker owners forming a non-profit for support, Mate Rimac's new robotaxi venture, and Ford's focus on affordable EVs with its new 'skunkworks' team. The Pikes Peak Hill Climb saw impressive performances from the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and a Rivian R1T setting a production truck record, while a restomod Hummer EV conversion by North American EV is noted for its efficiency improvements over the stock model. The review also briefly mentions recalls for Porsche Taycan and Tesla Cybertruck, and various other industry news snippets.