Summary
- Tech reporters tested improved charging infrastructure for luxury EVs on an ice cream road trip
- They rented a Tesla Cybertruck and a Rivian R1S to assess ease of charging and ice cream stops
- Charging costs have increased, with Tesla Superchargers becoming more accessible to non-Tesla EVs
- Road-tripping in an EV has become easier with longer-range batteries, but savings compared to gas vehicles are limited
- The trip covered 400 miles, showcasing the practicality and challenges of EV travel, along with indulging in ice cream stops.
Article
In response to the new Massachusetts Ice Cream Trail, a pair of reporters decided to take a road trip to test the improved charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs). Without pre-planning charging stops and relying on specialized apps, they set out in a Tesla Cybertruck and a Rivian R1S to experience the latest technologies in luxury EVs. The goal was to see how easy it is to log a full day on the road in a luxury EV in 2024, while also indulging in plenty of ice cream along the way.
The reporters started their journey at Sundae School Ice Cream in Dennis Port on Cape Cod. With the Cybertruck’s range at 340 miles and the Rivian’s at over 400 miles on a charge, they drove to the ice cream shop without any issues. The futuristic design of the Cybertruck attracted plenty of curious onlookers, while the reporters enjoyed their ice cream treats. They then proceeded to Rhode Island, stopping at Brickley’s Ice Cream in Wakefield for more sweet treats before heading to Westview Farms Creamery in Monson, Massachusetts.
Despite concerns about the lack of charging stations and high costs associated with EVs, the reporters found that using Tesla’s Supercharger network made charging their vehicles convenient. The ability for other EV brands like Rivian to utilize Tesla’s network was a game-changer, providing easier access to reliable chargers. Charging the vehicles at Supercharger stations in Hyannis and Sturbridge was quick but came at a higher cost compared to home charging rates.
After nearly 400 miles of driving, the reporters concluded that road-tripping in an electric vehicle has become more manageable with longer-range batteries and wider availability of charging stations, especially for non-Tesla drivers. However, the savings compared to gas-powered vehicles have decreased with lower gas prices. Despite the challenges and costs of EV charging, the road trip was a success in showcasing the progress of EV infrastructure and the potential for a more sustainable future in transportation.
The experience highlighted the evolving landscape of EV technology and charging infrastructure, showing that road trips in luxury EVs are indeed feasible with the right planning and resources. As more automakers introduce longer-range batteries and expand charging networks, the transition to electric vehicles is becoming more accessible and practical. Despite the occasional challenges and higher costs of charging, the journey demonstrated the potential for a future where EVs play a significant role in reducing emissions and promoting sustainability in transportation.
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