Take Your Off-Roading Further With the New Hybrid Rivian R1T
Hybrid Rivian
Rivian is an American automotive and energy technology company that produces electric vehicles. The company has recently announced the development of a hybrid version of its popular R1T truck, which combines an electric powertrain with a gas-powered generator. This new model promises to provide greater range and flexibility for off-roaders looking to explore the great outdoors.
The hybrid Rivian will feature a battery pack capable of providing up to 300 miles of range on a single charge, as well as a gas-powered generator that can be used to extend the range even further. The generator will be able to produce up to 10 kW of power, allowing it to recharge the battery in just a few hours. Additionally, the generator will also be able to provide electricity for other uses such as powering lights or charging devices.
For those looking for extra peace of mind when venturing into remote areas, there are portable generators available that can be plugged into the Rivian’s onboard charging port. These generators typically run on either gasoline or propane and offer up to 10kW of power output. They are relatively lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and store when not in use. However, they may not be powerful enough to make a significant difference if you find yourself running low on charge while out on the trail.
Another option is to rent an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle for your trip. Tesla has recently released videos showing how their cars can be charged using ICE engines, so this could be another way to get some extra juice when needed.
Finally, if you have access to a Firman 10kW tri-fuel generator, you can plug it directly into the Rivian’s onboard charger and gain up to 8kW of continuous power output. This would allow you to charge overnight while camping, but bear in mind that you’ll only get around 16 miles of range per hour of charge – much less if you’re off-roading.
Overall, the new hybrid Rivian looks set to revolutionize overlanding by offering greater range and more options for recharging while out on the trail. With its combination of battery power and gas-powered generator, it should give drivers plenty of flexibility when planning longer trips into remote areas.
Is there a generator that I can use to charge my Rivian on an offroading trip?
You may be able to find a portable generator that has enough oomph to make a difference, but it would likely be expensive and heavy. A 110V generator will give you about one mile an hour of charge, which may be enough to limp to the nearest electric charger. Honda generators are great and super quiet, but they may not be useful if you get too close to zero charge. Consider renting an ICE vehicle or investing in a dual-fuel (gasoline/propane) "portable" generator that weighs ~200 lbs and can generate 10kW with a NEMA 14-50 outlet.
What other options do I have for charging while offroading?
If your route has charging stations that can support the trip, consider using those. You could also look into making an extra small battery pack akin to how ICE cars have jerry cans. Alternatively, you could invest in a Firman 10kW tri-fuel generator that has a NEMA 14-50 outlet and plug your Rivian's portable charging cable straight into it. This would allow you to charge overnight while camping, though you'd only get about 16 miles of range per hour of charge.
Is there any way I can charge with a second battery like we have with iPhone cases?
Secondary batteries for cell phones typically have as much capacity as the phone's battery itself, or close to it; that's not an option for EVs. However, you could look into a battery pack that can be charged from an AC outlet and then plugged into your Rivian. This would give you the ability to charge while offroading, but it would require some extra effort to set up and maintain. You'd also need to make sure the battery pack is compatible with your Rivian's charging system.