Tesla’s Story

Tesla began the EV market as we know it today and the company remains the strongest seller of EV models in the world. From China, BYD is close, but nothing in the United States compares. The Tesla Model Y is currently the world’s best-selling vehicle. Alongside the compact SUV, the Model 3 sedan is the second most popular. Higher-end models include the Model S sedan and the Model X SUV. Most recently, the Cybertruck has captured the imaginations of EV buyers.

Rivian’s Story

Several EV startups have tried to take on Tesla and gain success, but only a few have managed to produce a large number of vehicles and get them to customers. Rivian is one of those. The California company began in 2009 and in 2021 it launched its first vehicle, the Rivian R1T pickup truck. It was the first electric pickup of the modern EV era. Rivian followed that with the R1S, a big SUV based on the same platform. Rivian also makes a delivery van for Amazon, one of its original investment backers.

Comparing Rivian and Tesla Vehicles

Tesla’s trademark is mostly medium-sized sedans and SUVs, while Rivian is going after buyers who want larger vehicles with off-road ability. Rivian’s brand description embraces the outdoors. Both Tesla and Rivian vehicles are packed with cutting-edge and thoughtful features.

For example, the R1T has a nifty gear tunnel where you can stash items between the cab and bed. The Rivian truck and SUV have a choice of four motors, an adjustable height suspension, and multiple drive modes for taking on rough terrain.

On the other hand, Tesla’s vehicles are strongly geared toward urban and suburban driving. They’re designed to deliver on-road performance, and that’s especially true if you look at a sporty model like the Model S Plaid. There is some overlap between the two brands, including modern technology and design simplicity.

Both Rivian and Tesla have done away with physical buttons, which is cool on one front, but frustrating when you need to use the touchscreen simply to change the air vent direction.

Buying a Tesla or Rivian

One perk of buying either a Tesla or a Rivian is that you can order easily online. Both companies reject the traditional dealership model and instead sell their models directly to customers via their websites. This easy ordering method makes both companies feel distinctly modern and it may even represent the future of the auto industry.

Which Should You Choose?

It’s difficult to say that one brand is heads and tails better than the other as they both appeal to different consumers. If a truck or a large SUV with impressive off-road chops is your preference, then Rivian beats Tesla easily. However, Rivian doesn’t have an answer for Tesla’s sportier offerings either. So, it largely depends on what you want.

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A Bold Promise: Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions, Zero Congestion

At a 2021 trade show, Barra shared GM’s vision for the future, one that includes zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion. According to Barra, the key to achieving this vision is electrification. Under her leadership, GM has launched several all-electric models and expanded its EV lineup to nine cars and trucks, with four more on the way.

While Tesla continues to dominate the EV market, GM is gaining ground with its growing range of electric vehicles. From the affordable Chevy Bolt to the upcoming electric Cadillac Escalade IQ, GM is proving that it is serious about competing in the electric space. The Escalade IQ, with a starting price of $130,000 and a range of 460 miles per charge, is a prime example of GM’s commitment to innovation and luxury in the EV market.

Will GM Be All-Electric by 2035?

When asked whether GM will be entirely electric by 2035, Barra remained confident but realistic. “For our light-duty vehicles, yes,” she stated, adding that GM’s transition to electric vehicles would be guided by consumer demand. However, Barra acknowledged that the path to an all-electric future won’t be linear, especially in the face of slowing EV sales. While last year saw a decline in EV sales in the U.S., other countries are adopting electric vehicles faster, and Barra believes the trend will eventually catch up here. Despite the challenges, Barra is optimistic about GM’s ability to meet its 2035 target.

A Changing Market

GM’s move toward electrification isn’t without its hurdles. While EVs made up only about eight percent of new car sales in the U.S. last year, government subsidies and consumer incentives could help speed up the transition.

Barra’s approach to GM’s all-electric future is focused on flexibility and innovation. Whether it’s developing semi-autonomous driving systems like Super Cruise or working on high-performance electric models like the hybrid Corvette E-Ray, GM is staying ahead of the curve.

The Road Ahead

As the automotive industry undergoes rapid transformation, Barra remains confident in GM’s ability to lead the charge. With major investments in EV technology, a workforce driven by innovation, and a commitment to reducing emissions, Barra is betting on a future where GM will be at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.

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Access to Tesla Superchargers

GM customers in the United States will soon be able to use Tesla’s Supercharger network, thanks to the introduction of the GM-approved NACS DC adapter. The adapter allows Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC EV drivers to connect their vehicles to the extensive Tesla Supercharger network. Initially launching in the US for $225, the adapter will also be available to Canadian customers later this year.

This move grants GM customers access to more than 231,800 public Level 2 and DC fast chargers throughout North America. With this expansion, GM drivers can now tap into reliable charging stations that were previously exclusive to Tesla owners. Now, long-distance travel and daily commuting is much easier.

Improving the Customer Experience

Through the vehicle mobile app, GM customers can locate Tesla Superchargers, check station status, initiate charging sessions, and even pay for charging, all within one platform. This user-friendly approach makes EV ownership more convenient by simplifying the charging process, reducing range anxiety, and helping drivers find charging stations when they need them most.

Collaborative Efforts in Charging Infrastructure

GM’s partnership with Tesla to offer Supercharger access is just one part of its broader strategy to improve public EV charging infrastructure. GM has already taken steps to expand its own charging network in collaboration with companies like EVgo and Pilot Travel Centers. For instance, GM is working with EVgo to install 2,850 DC fast chargers in major metropolitan areas across the US, and it’s building an additional 2,000 fast chargers at Pilot and Flying J travel centers to accommodate long-distance travelers.

GM’s involvement in the creation of IONNA, a joint venture to develop a high-powered charging network, shows its commitment to accessible EV infrastructure. With a goal of installing more than 30,000 chargers in both urban and highway locations, GM is working hard to ensure that EV drivers have plenty of options when it comes to fast, reliable charging.

A Bright Future for EV Drivers

With GM’s expansion into the Tesla Supercharger network, EV drivers will have even more charging options at their fingertips. This collaboration between two major players in the electric vehicle space signals a future where EV owners can expect greater convenience and accessibility, no matter where they’re headed. By improving public charging infrastructure and making it easier for customers to charge their vehicles, GM is leading the way toward a more electrified and connected future.

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Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Ioniq 6: Quick Facts

When comparing the Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs. Ioniq 6, there are similarities but also differences between the two. The Ioniq 6 is a compact sedan and it offers more range and a slightly more affordable price than the Ioniq 5 crossover. However, the Ioniq 5 has more cargo space and will soon be available in a high-performance N model. Both models are built on the E-GMP platform and feature similar battery pack options and the choice between single and dual-motor powertrains.

Range and Efficiency

In terms of looks, the Ioniq 6 sedan has a more aerodynamic design with sleek lines and a lower ride height. This ultimately helps its driving range compared to the Ioniq 5 crossover. The highest range of the Ioniq 6 sedan is 361 miles on a full charge. The long-range version of the Ioniq 5 only manages 303 miles, which is good in general, but quite a bit less than the Ioniq 6.

It’s worth noting that the top range figure for the Ioniq 6 is only achievable with the SE trim and 18-inch wheels. If you move up to higher trims with 20-inch wheels and wider tires, the range goes down to 305 miles. On the Ioniq 5, the range quoted applies to all RWD models with the larger battery pack.

The range difference is minimal when it comes to comparing the AWD versions of both models. The Ioniq 6 AWD models get 270 miles of range, while the AWD models of the Ioniq 5 get 266 miles.

Power and Performance

The standard range RWD setup of the Ioniq 6 sedan makes 149 horsepower, while the long-range AWD model at the top of the lineup makes up to 320 horsepower. A midrange model with RWD and a single electric motor makes 225 horsepower. For the Ioniq 5, the base RWD setup makes 168 horsepower, but the midrange and top models deliver the same horsepower as the Ioniq 6 sedan.

A high-performance N model of the Ioniq 5 has been confirmed and it will offer dual electric motors with considerably more output than anything in the current model range. The exact specifications haven’t been confirmed yet, but it’s likely to be around 600 horsepower.

Interior Space

Both models are quite roomy inside. The Ioniq 6 is longer than the Ioniq 5 in overall length, but the crossover has a longer wheelbase. This translates to slightly less passenger space for the Ioniq 6 vs the Ioniq 5. In the front seats, the Ioniq 6 sedan has more legroom, but the Ioniq 5 crossover wins out with more rear legroom.

The hatchback body style of the Ioniq 5 also offers significantly more cargo space than the conventional trunk of the Ioniq 6 sedan. The Ioniq 5 features 27 cubic feet of space behind its rear seat, but the Ioniq 6’s trunk has only 11 cubic feet.

Prices and Trims

Unsurprisingly, the Ioniq 6 sedan is cheaper than the Ioniq 5 crossover, but only by a small amount. The sedan starts at $42,715 for the base trim, while the Ioniq 5 starts at $42,785 for its base model. At the top end, the prices look similar as well with the Ioniq 5 at $57,835 and the Ioniq 6 at $57,215. Both models come in SE, SEL, and Limited trim levels. Standard features for each are roughly the same, but the Ioniq 6 has a few additional exterior paint colors.

Ultimately, the two models are so similar that it really comes down to whether you prefer a crossover or a sedan. The Ioniq 5 wins out in interior space, but the Ioniq 6 is more efficient.

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