Rivian has taken strides in unveiling its latest models, the R2, R3, and R3X. These vehicles certainly raise the bar for the company. However, when placed in the broader context of the electric vehicle sector, these advancements, while commendable, serve to highlight the relentless pace set by industry leader Tesla.
Rivian's Surprise Launch
This is not to rain on Rivian's parade. Rarely does an EV manufacturer not named Tesla rule the coverage of any given day. Rivian did show off some development during the launch of the R2 and the surprise announcement of the R3 and R3X.
The R2, positioned as a smaller, more affordable alternative to its predecessor, brings Rivian's distinctive design into a compact, efficient package. With a starting price of $45,000, over 300 miles of range, and the ability to accelerate from 0-60 MPH in under three seconds, the R2 is poised to garner some attention. The subsequent reveal of the R3 and R3X models shows that there are big plans for the future for a company that plans to build 57,000 cars in 2024.
Innovation on Display
Rivian showed off some new technology using the 4695 cylindrical battery cell and structural battery packs for increased range. The DC fast charging system works with NACS and CCS. There has also been a significant increase in autonomous driving capabilities, a new computing system, five radars, and 11 cameras. The company is delaying facility expansion, instead launching the R2 from its Illinois facility to save capital and expedite production.
That’s the good news, but the R2, with its new look, upgraded tech, and lower price, will not be available until 2026. The other two units will be available in 2027. This timing is crucial. While Rivian's new models are indeed groundbreaking, Tesla's "Redwood" project is set to introduce a vehicle at a $25,000 price point, making it highly accessible to the mass market.
Tesla's Countermove: Redwood, Van
The implications of Tesla's manufacturing efficiency and cost reduction advancements cannot be overstated. As Tesla gears up to launch its next-gen vehicle, it is likely already envisioning subsequent innovations that could further extend its lead in the EV sector. Those ideas, which are likely scribbled on Franz von Holzhausen’s notepad at this point, could very well be in development by 2027. Perhaps a highly configurable van, the obvious next step, could be created simultaneously with the other two Rivians coming out. Given the advancement learned year-over-year, a new Tesla product will likely beat Rivian’s prices.
With a production timeline that anticipates the start of manufacturing in the latter half of 2025, Tesla's next-gen vehicle is poised to hit the market around the same time Rivian's R2 begins delivery. Rivian's efforts, though significant, are part of a broader narrative dominated by Tesla's vision and execution. As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve, the ability to innovate at scale and meet product demand and consumer desire for affordability, range, and performance will determine the true leaders of the electric revolution. Rivian has a lot of work to do.
If you enjoy hearing about Rivian news and software features, be sure to check out our new site dedicated to Rivian.
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Tesla’s latest FSD update, version 2024.27.5 brings some improvements when parking your vehicle. This is another undocumented, but one we’re happy to see.
Most recently, the Cybertruck received the undocumented change for the Hands-Free Frunk opening (video below). The Cybertruck also recently received Vision Park Assist, which included steering wheel guides in the visualization showing the direction the front and rear wheels were turned. However, it turns out this isn’t just for the Cybertruck.
Update: We’ve updated this article to mention that this feature isn’t included in update 2024.32 yet.
Quick video on the auto frunk. It's literally 🧍♂️📐
Due to the Cybertruck’s unique rear-wheel steering and steer-by-wire design, Park Assist in the Cybertruck displayed the path of the front wheels, and how they would swing while reversing.
This enhancement is also coming to every Tesla vehicle in FSD 12.5.2 and later. It’s also expected to be available in a future update for non-FSD vehicles. However, it’s unclear whether it will be a later revision of update 2024.32 or the next major Tesla update. This is a neat little update, as it helps drivers better understand and predict the path their vehicle will take during a turn.
Brandon, going by @teslaflexx on X, originally spotted the new visuals recently on an AMD-based Model Y running 2024.27.5 and FSD V12.5.2.
Any vehicles who are on update 2024.27.5 or 2024.27.20 should have access to this new feature.
Looks like Cybertruck wasn’t the only vehicle to get the new guide visuals with park assist. Much better than the lines! pic.twitter.com/tF9ZsWCcWy
Tesla’s Cybertruck has been used as an awesome off-road vehicle so far, with some great videos from both Tesla themselves, as well as many owners who have been challenging difficult off-road obstacles.
One frequently requested feature, however, is additional armor for the Cybertruck to improve its off-road capabilities. Wes Morril, Program Manager for the Cybertruck, has confirmed that Tesla will be introducing Battery Armor and Rock Sliders as retrofit “options” by the end of 2024.
Battery Armor
The Cybertruck’s underbody plate, while not completely unarmoured, isn’t exactly super thick, and can leave the battery exposed if the weight of the truck is left on a high-center point or a sharp rock. This upcoming battery armor will be similar to the armored undersides offered by other companies specifically for off-roading.
Rivian, for example, sells armor as a single package for $3,950 USD, or $5,800 CAD, along with a 20” wheel upgrade, full-size spare, and a utility panel including an air compressor and enough hose to let you reach any of the tires when airing up or down your tires for off-road. Tesla’s upcoming Battery Armor will be a retrofit option, unlike Rivian’s – which can only be added when purchasing the vehicle.
Rock Sliders
The Cybertruck has a simple and clean bottom corner – but that also means that it exposes the plastic trim directly. Rock sliders go on the bottom edge of off-road vehicles between the wheels to protect the vehicle's body. Rock sliders are a pretty common modification, and some companies have already begun to offer them for the Cybertruck – but a first-party OEM option is always best.
This is especially true since most third-party options use the lift points of the vehicle to attach rock sliders, which can make replacing wheels or lifting the vehicle difficult without removing the third-party additions. This adds considerable time to what should be a quick job.
Release Date
We’re looking forward to Tesla bringing these options to the Tesla store in the coming months. Wes said they’d be available as retrofits before the end of 2024, along with the upcoming Winter Tire Package, which is arriving next month. The Winter Tire Package is already available to order for Cybertruck owners.
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