Car Guy Corner: Dave Reviews The New Rivian All-Electric Truck
Dave Domenichini parks his new Rivian in front of the Studio 38 Designs Showroom.
Many folks have been asking me to provide feedback on my experience with my new all-electric Rivian truck, so here it goes:
Electric vehicles are pretty controversial these days. Some think they are the answer to everything; others believe they are being forced upon us and will never be the ultimate solution. My opinion is that, as always, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. In an effort to stay out of the politics of electric vehicles, I will report only on my likes and dislikes of this particular vehicle:
What I like about the Rivian:
This truck offers insane acceleration - the same 0 to 60mph (3.0 seconds) as a Lamborghini Huracan.
The Rivian provides an extremely luxurious ride when set to “All Purpose” mode and standard ride height.
It is very capable off-road when set to the “Off-Road” mode. For example, this truck rock crawls like a Jeep Rubican and can traverse 40” of water. (Though I have yet to try this.)
I enjoy the borderline sports car-like handling when in “Sport” mode. That’s when the vehicle drops 6,” and the suspension tightens up.
The Rivan has an amazing stereo system with built-in Spotify and voice recognition. I like being able to say any song I can think of out loud and have it play.
I like that I have a “full tank” every morning with a 300-mile+ range and that driving 300 miles costs me less than $30.
It may be silly, but I love the automatic high-beam headlight system.
I love that I get an over-the-air update every 3-4 weeks that adds new features/functions. ("Bells and whistles.”)
What I dislike about the Rivian:
As an all-electric adventure vehicle, the Rivian just doesn’t make the nice exhaust sounds that a great internal combustion engine makes.
Similarly, I don’t get to enjoy gear changes.
The Rivian doesn’t come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The Navigation system is just so-so.
Although covered under warranty, the power tonneau cover has mechanical issues.
It’s progress. And it’s not boring.
Overall, I am very impressed with this vehicle. Six major car manufacturers have stated that they will stop making internal combustion vehicles next decade. And California has recently committed to stop selling these vehicles by 2035. So like it or not, it’s happening. And I am okay with it, as long as the vehicles aren’t boring. And this Rivian truck is anything but boring.
In summary, I once heard that people don’t like change but like progress. I won’t be selling my gas-guzzling, carbureted 1965 Chevelle convertible any time soon. But I am not ashamed to park it alongside my new electric vehicle either!
See you on the road! - Dave
About D.R. Domenichini Construction
D.R. Domenichini Construction is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured general contracting firm servicing the greater Bay Area. David R. Domenichini, owner and proprietor, brings over 20 years of experience to his family-owned and operated business. The company was named one of the Top 50 Remodelers by Remodeling Magazine in 2018, as well as the Best General Contractor and Best Kitchen and Bath Remodeler of Morgan Hill for several years in a row.