Summary
- Many electric vehicle owners are considering options beyond Tesla due to competition catching up or surpassing Tesla
- YouTuber Robert Rosenfeld test drove a loaner 2025 Rivian R1S but decided to keep his Tesla due to loyalty and software preferences
- Rivian and Tesla are considered to make advanced EVs with software-defined vehicles and over-the-air updates
- Rosenfeld compared the Rivian R1S and Tesla models and highlighted differences in customization, design, and driving experience
- Recommendations for those considering switching from Tesla include NACS-equipped Hyundai Ioniq 5 for range, Rivian for software, and Polestar 3 or Porsche Taycan for performance.
Article
The electric vehicle market is rapidly evolving, with many competitors catching up to or even surpassing Tesla, which currently dominates the space. Many EV owners are considering their options and wondering if there is life after Tesla. YouTuber Robert Rosenfeld, a Tesla owner since 2019, recently had the opportunity to test drive a 2025 Rivian R1S for a week. While he enjoyed the Rivian, he ultimately decided to stick with his Tesla for several reasons, including loyalty to the brand and the preferences of his audience.
Rivian and Tesla are at the forefront of creating software-defined vehicles with advanced smartphone app integration and over-the-air updates. While Rivian’s EVs are gaining popularity among Tesla owners interested in new options, the brand currently offers fewer and more expensive choices compared to Tesla’s lineup. However, with the upcoming release of the $45,000 Rivian R2, the competition between the two brands may become even more intense.
In terms of pricing, the Rivian R1S Tri-Motor Max Pack costs around $111,000, comparable to a well-equipped Cybertruck or Model X Plaid. The R1S offers 371 miles of range, surpassing the Model X and Cybertruck in this aspect. Rosenfeld appreciates the customization options and SUV capability of the Rivian, as well as its premium interior and driving experience. However, he maintains loyalty to Tesla due to the software features that he values, such as Full Self-Driving capabilities.
Rosenfeld praises the Rivian for its top-down camera system and driving dynamics but expresses concerns about the software functionality compared to Tesla. He appreciates the increased customization options in the R1S but feels that Tesla’s software is more intuitive and user-friendly. The lack of a direct equivalent to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving technology in Rivian’s vehicles is also a drawback for him.
For those considering moving on from Tesla, factors to consider include preferences for range, software features, and performance. Options such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Rivian, Polestar 3, and Porsche Taycan offer compelling alternatives to Tesla, with each brand focusing on different aspects of the driving experience. As the EV market continues to evolve, customers have more choices than ever before. Ultimately, the decision to switch from Tesla depends on individual priorities and preferences.
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