MOTOR1.COM TEST CAR HAPPY HOUR #32: RIVIAN R1T AND RIVIAN R1S

EV Channels Review

This episode of Motor1.com Test Car Happy Hour features a deep dive into the Rivian R1T and R1S, with insights from Tom Moloughney, who owns an R1T. A key takeaway is the R1T's impressive winter range test performance, beating the Ford F-150 Lightning in challenging conditions with a consumption rate of 1.83-1.85 miles per kWh. Despite this, Moloughney and Brandon Turkus found the F-150 Lightning more comfortable for long trips, with Moloughney's wife preferring its driving experience. The R1T's interior is lauded for its premium feel, quality materials, and unique features like the gear tunnel and removable Bluetooth speaker, though the rear seat space was noted as potentially tight for families. A significant drawback discussed was the intermittent and unreliable nature of the phone-as-a-key app functionality, which caused distress for Moloughney's wife. The R1S was highlighted for its superior off-road maneuverability due to a shorter wheelbase and potentially better ride quality, though it offers similar interior space to the R1T. The discussion also touched upon the growing charging infrastructure and the viability of EVs during power outages, concluding that EVs can be more resilient than gasoline cars in such scenarios.