Featured Rivian Claims R2 Matches Model Y Efficiency… Let’s See About That

I saw that and thanks to my past Prius efforts, I don’t throw stones but would suggest better approaches:

• EPA roll-down coefficients - this builds on more rigorous methodology to make 2d order polynomials to compare drag forces.
• 3 speed benchmarks define the trending polynomial - benchmark 30, 55, and 75 mph defines a performance curve.
• Using ‘press car’ - often tuned for comfort, a poor test car compared to what the EPA and customers use.

I have no interest in an EV pickup or SUV (nor Model Y.) I seek minimum cost to operate so sedans with a serious driver automation ‘cranks my tractor.’


Bob Wilson

 

Then there's the service centers. If you think Tesla SC buildout is sparse, as an example closest rivian service center to us is ~100miles further than the 200 miles away Tesla service center (turning on which roads we took).
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For range I prioritize highway miles at the speeds I'm going. I had a 2019 model 3, and changed to a 2024 model y (to get the latest self driving hardware). On epa site the model Y is more efficient but it is less efficient in the real world on highway trips, which makes sense since the frontal area is larger. I liked the model 3 better but am happy I changed, at the time I traded it was only $10K to get a 4.5 year newer car with the latest hardware. The self driving allowed me to go from inside the garage to park this morning when I was tired and manuevered well. My dog has a more comfortable are, and my wife likes the plusher suspension, but I miss the sportier suspension and handling of the 3.

The rivians are good vehicles but I don't believe the model Y numbers on the highway (its hot here so ac may be part of it) and trust them even less on rivians.