WE DROVE A RIVIAN R1T ACROSS THE COUNTRY! HERE’S WHAT HAPPENED

EV Channels Review

The Out of Spec Podcast team recounts their cross-country race from Jacksonville to San Diego in a Rivian R1T. Despite a strong start and excellent energy efficiency (averaging 1.98 miles/kWh), the team ultimately finished third. Key challenges included the CCS charging infrastructure, which was slower than anticipated, and a suboptimal charging stop in Florida that cost them significant time. The Rivian's route planner was also criticized as 'terrible,' forcing the team to rely on manual planning with PlugShare. However, the R1T's overall driving dynamics, ride comfort, and UI were praised, with one participant stating it would be their choice for an EV purchase if funds were unlimited. The experience highlighted that cross-country EV truck travel is feasible in early 2024, though infrastructure and charging strategies remain critical factors for competitive times. The team emphasized their more comfortable, albeit slightly slower, charging stops compared to the faster, shorter stops of competitors.