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EV Owner Resources

By EV Outdoors

This is our curated hub of EV owner tools and references. Everything from charger finders and trip planners to home charging, incentives, and owner communities.

Bookmark this page and check back as we keep adding the best resources for real-world EV living.

ℹ️NOTICE: We may earn commissions on select products that you purchase via this website.

Battery, Range & Efficiency Research

How can I lookup the range an efficiency of any EV?

FuelEconomy.gov Useful for quickly comparing EPA-rated range and efficiency across EVs.

How Often & For How Long Will I Need To Charge?

A Better Route Planner (ABRP) - Useful for seeing how an EV will perform on any given road trip and how much time you will spend charging with a given EV before you buy.

Also useful for current EV owners to plan road trips with a high degree of control over all aspect of the trip.

Enter in the EV your considering buying or your current EV and ABRP will help you plan your trips or research what your trips will look like in any given EV.

What can I do to preserve the life of my EV Battery?

There is much debate around different things you can do to extend or preserve the life of your EV battery. My best advice is not to over-think this.

Generally speaking you do not want to regularly charge the EV above 90% (70% is best) or discharge it below 20%.

If your daily driving needs will require you to use more than 70% of the battery then you should choose a larger battery option or a different EV. I call this the 70% rule because using more than 70% of the battery regularly will likely shorten its lifespan and degrade the EV ownership experience.

How Long will my EV battery last?

On average, EV batteries can lose up to about 2-3% capacity per year of ownership. Newer vehicles will see lower degradation due to newer technology and battery chemistries.

This all means that even if you lose 3% per year and your EV has 300 miles of range, after 10 years your EV will still have 70% of its range or more and be able to travel 210 or more miles.

My personal experience has been that EVs lose much less than this. There is a bit of degradation after year 1 but then it stabilizes. I have read many owner reports of degradation that is significantly lower than this.

Factors most likely to reduce battery life:

  • Regularly discharging below 20%
  • Regularly Charging above 90% (70% charge limit is best)
  • Frequent Public DC Fast Charging (though more recent research suggests this isn't as much of a factor with the newest EV models)
  • Climate (frequent exposure to high temperatures)

What can you do to preserve battery life:

  • Don't regularly discharge the battery below 20% (its ok to discharge down to 10% infrequently such as for long road trips)
  • Don't regularly charge the battery above 70% (its ok to charge to 100% infrequently such as for long road trips)
  • When its hot outside, try to park in the shade if at all possible.
  • Charge at home or at your office as much as possible and only use Public DC fast chargers when nescessary.

How can I track the health of my EV battery?

The easiest way is by using a service like Recurrent Auto. This service is free, tracks your battery health, and gives you insight into how your battery is doing. It can provide tips to improve and preserve battery health. Lastly, think of recurrent as your battery health log. This is especially important when you go to sell your EV. It allows the buyer to purchase your EV with confidence when they have insight and history into the battery health.

How long is the warranty on my EV Battery?

The federal minimum battery warranty in the United States requires automakers to cover electric vehicle (EV) batteries for at least 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. This mandate applies to all new EVs sold in the U.S. and is designed to protect consumers from excessive battery degradation or failure.

Some states, like California, have stricter requirements, mandating a 10-year or 150,000-mile warranty for new EV batteries.

Additionally, many manufacturers exceed the federal minimum—brands like Hyundai and Kia offer 10-year/100,000-mile warranties, while Mercedes-Benz and others provide extended coverage in certain markets.

What if I have more questions?

EV Support Facebook Group or Contact Us

EV Incentives, Rebates & Tax Credits

Is there a Federal EV Tax Credit?

Unfortunately, as of October 2025, the Federal EV tax credit has been cancelled. Many manufacturers have added additional incentives to their EVs to compensate for the loss of this incentive.

You can usually check the current incentives or offers on the manufacturer website or the Electric For All site.

How Can I Search for State level EV incentives?

The US Department of Energy maintains a list of all state incentives which can be searched here. These state incentives can help reduce the initial cost of a new EV.

You can usually check the current incentives or offers on the manufacturer website or the Electric For All site.

Does my utility provide any incentives for EV owners?

Your utility may provide an incentive for installing EV Charging (EVSE) at your home or business.

Your utility may also offer a Time-Of-Use (TOU) rate for EV charging during off-peak times which will significantly reduce your charging costs for your EV.

Lookup utility incentives on the Electric For All site.

EV Trip Planning & Route Tools

What is the best app for EV road trip planning?

A Better Route Planner (ABRP) - a trip-planning app built specifically for electric vehicles. Unlike generic navigation apps, it estimates your arrival state-of-charge and plans charging stops based on EV-specific factors—your exact vehicle model and battery size, current charge level, speed, elevation changes, weather, and (optionally) your preferred charging networks. The result is a route that’s optimized around real-world range and charging time, not just miles.

For EV owners, ABRP is especially useful for road trips and unfamiliar routes because it helps reduce “charger anxiety” by mapping out where to stop, how long to charge, and what you’ll have left when you arrive. It’s also a great tool for comparing “what-if” scenarios—different speeds, different chargers, fewer/longer stops, or avoiding certain networks—so you can choose the trip strategy that best fits your schedule and comfort level.

What is the best app for finding chargers?

PlugShare - PlugShare is one of the most widely used apps for finding EV charging stations, with a strong community-driven focus. It combines public charging locations across many networks into a single map and, importantly, layers in real-world driver check-ins, photos, and comments that tell you what’s actually happening at that charger right now.

For EV owners, PlugShare is especially useful because it helps you avoid wasted stops. You can quickly see whether a station is operational, how reliable it tends to be, how to access it (parking fees, gate codes, business hours), and which stalls or connectors are working. It’s also a go-to tool for discovering chargers you might otherwise miss—like hotel, municipal, dealership, and workplace units—making it valuable both for day-to-day charging and road-trip planning.

Different EV manufacturers also have different levels of charger finder functionality built-in to their in-vehicle navigation. None of them match the level of functionality available on PlugShare though.

Can I see a satellite view of charging stations?

Yes, I like to use Google Maps for this. I start by copying the address from PlugShare and then pasting that into Google Maps and switching to the satellite view. From there I can see exactly how the charging station is laid out.

This is especially important for larger EVs or if your towing a trailer. I use it to make sure my trailer will fit or can be parked at a charging location before I arrive.

This helps avoid unwanted surprises.

Public Charging FAQ

How can I easily find public chargers?

Many times your vehicle navigation will have a built-in function to add charging stop on your route or to locate nearby chargers. None of them is as good as PlugShare though.

PlugShare - PlugShare is one of the most widely used apps for finding EV charging stations, with a strong community-driven focus. It combines public charging locations across many networks into a single map and, importantly, layers in real-world driver check-ins, photos, and comments that tell you what’s actually happening at that charger right now.

For EV owners, PlugShare is especially useful because it helps you avoid wasted stops. You can quickly see whether a station is operational, how reliable it tends to be, how to access it (parking fees, gate codes, business hours), and which stalls or connectors are working. It’s also a go-to tool for discovering chargers you might otherwise miss—like hotel, municipal, dealership, and workplace units—making it valuable both for day-to-day charging and road-trip planning.

What’s the difference between Level 2 and DC fast charging, and when should I use each?

Level 2 is slower AC charging (best for home, work, and shopping centers) and is gentler on planning/cost.

DC fast charging is high-power rapid charging (best for road trips and quick top-ups) but can be more expensive.

How do I know if a charger is compatible with my EV (NACS vs CCS vs J1772)?

Match the charger’s connector to your EV’s inlet: J1772 = Level 2, CCS = DC fast (CCS combo plug), NACS = Tesla-style plug (Level 2 or DC fast). If the plug type doesn’t match your port, you’ll need the correct adapter—then confirm the station/network supports your vehicle (especially for NACS DC fast/Superchargers).

Do I need an adapter—and which one should I buy for my vehicle?

You may need an adapter depending on your EV’s port and the chargers you plan to use. Buy the vehicle-compatible, safety-certified adapter for the connector mismatch you’ll encounter most:

How much does public charging cost, and why does pricing vary so much?

Public charging costs range widely—often around $0.30–$0.70 per kWh at DC fast chargers (Level 2 is usually cheaper). Pricing varies by network and location, charger power level, local electricity rates, time-of-use/peak pricing, and added session or idle fees (and sometimes per-minute billing where per-kWh isn’t allowed).

Are there membership plans that actually save money (and when are they worth it)?

Yes—memberships can save money if you fast charge frequently on the same network. They’re worth it when your monthly savings from lower per-kWh/per-minute rates and reduced session fees exceed the subscription cost; if you only DC fast charge occasionally or use many different networks, they usually aren’t worth it.

Why did my session cost more than expected (idle fees, session fees, demand pricing)?

Public charging can cost more than expected due to idle fees (staying plugged in after charging stops), session/connection fees (flat start fees), time-based billing (paying per minute when charging slows), and variable pricing such as peak rates or demand-based pricing set by the network/site.

How long will a fast charge take from 10% to 80% (and why does it slow down)?

Most EVs take about 20–40 minutes to go from 10% to 80% on a high-power DC fast charger, depending on the car and station. Battery size plays a factor since large batteries require more energy to recharge.

It slows down because the battery management system tapers power as the battery fills (and to manage heat), so charging is fastest at low state of charge and progressively slower as you approach higher percentages.

What affects charging speed (battery temp, state of charge, charger power, sharing stalls)?

Charging speed depends mainly on battery temperature (cold or overheated batteries charge slower), state of charge (fastest at low SOC and slows sharply above 60–80%), charger/station power and your car’s max acceptance rate, and stall power sharing/derating when equipment is shared or the site is congested.

How do I avoid lines at busy chargers and plan stops with minimal waiting?

Use your route planner to target larger sites with many stalls, arrive off-peak (early morning/late evening), and precondition before arrival for faster turnover. Check live availability in the network app, keep a backup stop nearby, and plan short 10–80% sessions so you’re not waiting (or causing others to wait) longer than necessary.

Should I charge to 80% or 100% on road trips?

On road trips, limit charge to 80% most of the time because charging slows down significantly above that. Go to 100% only when you need the extra range to reach the next reliable charger or your destination (and ideally start driving soon after hitting 100%).

What’s the best “charging strategy” for road trips (shorter stops vs fewer longer stops)?

For most EVs, the fastest road-trip strategy is more frequent, shorter DC fast-charging stops—typically charging from about 10–20% up to ~60–80%, then getting back on the road. Charging slows significantly above ~80%, so fewer “long” stops often takes longer overall.

Use fewer, longer stops only when you need extra buffer (weather, gaps between chargers) or you’re arriving somewhere without reliable charging.

What’s proper charging etiquette (unplugging, moving when done, sharing stalls)?

Proper public-charging etiquette is simple:

  • Move promptly when you’re done to free the charger and avoid idle fees.
  • Don’t unplug someone else unless the site’s rules explicitly allow it and the session is clearly complete.
  • Use the correct stall behavior: if the site has paired/shared power stalls, avoid parking next to an active charger when other pairs are open.
  • Keep it efficient: charge only as long as you need (often to ~80% on fast chargers), then go.
  • Be considerate with space and cables: park within the lines, don’t block adjacent stalls, and route cables to minimize trip hazards.

Can someone unplug my car, and can I lock the connector?

In most cases, someone cannot easily unplug you while charging because the connector is typically locked by the car during an active session (and often stays locked until you unlock the vehicle or end charging). Many EVs also let you enable a charge-port locking/anti-theft setting in the vehicle menu or app.

Practical tips:

  • Enable charge-port lock (if your vehicle offers it).
  • Lock the vehicle while charging.
  • If you’re using an adapter, confirm it also supports a secure latch/lock so both pieces stay attached.

What should I do if an ICE vehicle is blocking a charger?

If an ICE vehicle is blocking a charger:

  • Check for another stall (or a nearby station in your charging app) to avoid wasting time.
  • Report it to the property manager: call the business/security listed on-site, or notify the location’s front desk.
  • Report it in the charging app/network (many apps let you flag a blocked stall) and take a quick photo if needed for support/tow requests.
  • Avoid confrontation. If there are posted EV-only/tow signs, ask the property to enforce/tow per their policy and local rules. It is not recommended to confront another driver directly for safety reasons.

Is it safe to public-charge in rain/snow, and what precautions should I take?

Yes—public charging in rain or snow is generally safe because EV connectors and charging equipment are designed and tested for outdoor use, with built-in fault detection and ground-fault protection.

Precautions:

  • Inspect the connector/cable for damage, exposed conductors, or a loose handle; don’t use it if anything looks compromised.
  • Avoid standing water where the plug or your charge port would be submerged; choose another stall if the area is flooded.
  • Keep the connector and port reasonably clean/dry (wipe off heavy water, snow, or ice); don’t force a connector that’s iced over.
  • Follow the station prompts and stop immediately if you see repeated faults, arcing, burning smell, or unusual heat.
  • Use common-sense winter safety: watch footing, wear gloves, and route the cable to avoid trip hazards.

How is the switch to NACS affecting access to chargers for my EV?

The switch to NACS (now standardized as SAE J3400) is generally increasing charger access for most non-Tesla EVs, but the practical impact depends on (1) whether your automaker has enabled Supercharger access, (2) whether your vehicle has a native NACS port or needs an adapter, and (3) which Supercharger sites are compatible.

See our EV Charging page for a adapter options. You should have an adapter regardless of which port your vehicle has in order to ensure the highest number of charging options are available to you.

ℹ️Top Tip: talk to a licensed electrician before you purchase your EV

Home Charging FAQ

Do I need Level 2 at home, or is a regular outlet (Level 1) enough?

Level 1 is enough if your daily driving is light and you can plug in for many hours (typically overnight). If you drive more miles per day, need faster recovery between trips, or have a larger-battery EV, Level 2 is usually worth it for convenience and reliability.

Do I need a "Smart Charger"?

You only need a smart charger if you want features like scheduled/off-peak charging, energy tracking, utility rebate eligibility, or load sharing. If you just want reliable charging and your EV already handles scheduling, a basic (non-smart) Level 2 charger is usually sufficient.

Can I install a 240v charger myself or do I need to hire an electrician?

If it’s a new 240V circuit, hire a licensed electrician in most cases (and often required for permits/insurance). DIY is generally only reasonable for very experienced people doing a permitted, code-compliant install.

How much does it cost to install a Level 2 charger?

Commonly $750–$2,500+ installed (plus the charger), depending on electrical work required; complex installs (panel upgrades/trenching) can be higher.

What determines the installation cost (panel capacity, distance, trenching, permits)?

Main drivers are panel capacity/available breaker space, wire run distance, routing difficulty (finished walls/conduit), trenching, permit/inspection fees, and whether you need a service/panel upgrade.

Do I need a permit and inspection to install a home EV charger?

Often yes for a new 240V circuit or hardwired EVSE. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, but permits are typically recommended and frequently required.

⚠️EV Outdoors always recommends you hire a licensed electrician with experience installing EV Chargers (EVSE). Further, we always recommend you have you work permitted and inspected for safety.

Should I hardwire the charger or use a 240V outlet (e.g., NEMA 14-50)?

Hardwire is usually best for reliability and higher current; a 14-50 outlet is fine for flexibility if you use a high-quality receptacle and keep to appropriate amperage.

ℹ️EV Outdoors always recommends you have a permanent home vehicle charging station hard-wired for maximum safety, speed, and reliability.

⚠️If you must use a plug, make sure the plug and receptacle are rated for EV use.

Can my electrical panel handle a Level 2 charger, or do I need an upgrade?

It depends on your service size and existing loads. An electrician can do a load calculation; many homes can support Level 2, but some need a panel/service upgrade or load management.

There are multiple load management solutions that allow you to install an EV charger while avoiding costly service upgrades. These load management devices work by slowing or stopping charging when demand in the home increases and then increasing the speed or resuming the session when the demand drops again. This allows you to safely charge your EV without exceeding the safety limits of your existing service.

What amperage should I install (32A/40A/48A/80A), and how do I choose?

Choose based on daily miles, time available to charge, and panel capacity: 40–48A covers most households; 80A is faster but requires substantial electrical capacity and significantly increases install costs.

If feasible, consider installing the highest amperage charger possible to "future proof" the installation. This costs a little more upfront but will often save money in the long run by eliminating the need to upgrade the circuit later on.

Can I charge two EVs at home, and do I need load sharing?

Yes. If your panel can’t support two full-power circuits, use load sharing (two chargers that split one circuit) or a load management system.

We recommend the Tesla Universal Wall connector available in our EV Charging section. The Tesla Wall Connector supports power sharing across up to 6 chargers. This allows up to six vehicles to charge at one time and share a set amount of amperage, smartly, between each of the chargers.

You can all see this video on your YouTube page which shows you how we have our garage setup to charge two EVs at once.

Is it safe to charge in the rain/outdoors, and what weatherproofing is required?

Yes, if the charger is rated for outdoor use and installed correctly. Use an outdoor-rated EVSE, proper weatherproof fittings/covers, and keep connectors off the ground and undamaged.

If you will be installing your charger outside, have it installed by licensed electrician to ensure that it maintains its warranty and weather proof certification.

Which connector do I need (J1772/NACS), and will it work with my EV?

Match the charger plug to your car: J1772 (many non-Tesla EVs) or NACS (Tesla-style, increasingly common). If they don’t match, you may need an adapter.

If you need an adapter, verify your charge port type, and visit our EV Charging section to get a quality adapter.

⚠️Avoid buying adapters from unknown companies on Amazon or other sites. Our adapters carried here are all UL2252 certified to meet quality standards for performance and safety.

How much will it increase my electricity bill?

Roughly: (kWh you add per month) × (your $/kWh rate). Many drivers see tens of dollars to a couple hundred/month, depending on mileage, efficiency, and local electricity rates.

I created a video showing you how to get a really good idea of your charging costs before you buy. You can view that video here.

Silverado & Sierra EV Owner Resources

Where can I check for recalls?

You can check for recalls at the official NHTSA website using the link below:

Check For Recalls

Where can I connect with other Silverado & Sierra EV Owners?

The Silverado/Sierra EV Forums and Facebook groups are the best place to connect with other owners and knowledgeable folks in the community.

Silverado/Sierra EV Forum | Silverado EV Facebook Group

I have a warning light in my dash, what should I do?

Warning lights can be concerning. Thankfully, GM has a dedicated website walking you through some steps you can take on your own.

Warning Light Troubleshooting

How is software updated on Silverado & Sierra EV?

GM pushes vehicle software updates over-the-air (OTA) from time to time. When this happens, you will see a message on your vehicle screen stating that a software update is available. The message will give further guidance on how you can perform the software update.

Alternatively, you can ask the dealer to update all modules and software on the vehicle when its in for service. This is usually covered under warranty by GM.

Lastly, if your extremely technical and don't mind the extra risk involved with updating the vehicle yourself. This blog post shows you how to do it.

You can purchase the official gm diagnostic equipment and subscribe to ACDelco TDS

What are the tire options for my Silverado/Sierra EV?

I cover a number of different tire options and related topics in my Tire Guide for the Silverado EV and Sierra EV trucks. Visit my Tire Guide for more details.

Visit Our Silverado EV & Sierra EV Library

Check out our Silverado & Sierra EV YouTube Playlist

Mid Atlantic Rivian Club

This site is for those living in the Mid-Atlantic (MD, VA, DC, WV, PA, DE) who have, or ordered, or are interested in Rivian.

Building a community to share photos,
stories, plan local meetups, and to learn more about our wonderful vehicles.

Find An Event

Rivian Owner Resources & FAQ

Where can I check for recalls?

You can check for recalls at the official NHTSA website using the link below:

Check For Recalls

Where can I connect with other Rivian owners?

There are multiple ways to connect with other Rivian owners. One of the best things about owning a Rivian vehicle is the ownership community.

First, I recommend you reach out to your local chapter of the Rivian Clubs of America . They have events and meetups where you can learn and engage with Rivian and other Rivian owners.

In addition there are some online communities where you can engage with other owners virtually.

Which configuration should I buy (R1S vs R1T, Dual vs Tri/Quad, Standard/Large/Max pack)?

Choose R1S for family/3-row flexibility and enclosed cargo; choose R1T for bed/gear tunnel utility. Pick Dual for best value/efficiency, and Tri/Quad if you prioritize maximum performance and capability; choose Large/Max if you road-trip/tow often or want more buffer, Standard if your driving is mostly local.

View my video ordering guide here COMING SOON

What options are “must-haves” vs nice-to-have (wheels, interior, roof, audio, etc.)?

Must-haves are the ones that match how you use the vehicle: battery size, wheel/tire setup that fits your climate and use.

Nice-to-have is typically premium interior/audio/appearance upgrades if you think those materially improve your daily experience.

What’s the real-world range at highway speeds (70–75 mph) and in winter?

Expect highway range to be meaningfully lower than EPA, and winter range to drop further due to temperature and cabin heating; plan extra buffer on cold, fast highway drives.

How accurate are Rivian’s delivery estimates and what can delay delivery?

They’re directional, not guaranteed—delays are commonly caused by configuration/option availability, transport logistics, regional batching, and end-of-quarter volume swings.

Of course delivery can also be delayed if the vehicle doesn't meet quality standards during it pre-delivery inspection at your local service center.

How much does wheel/tire choice affect range?

It can be noticeable—The all-terrain wheels and tires can significantly reduce range but are more capable off-road. Summer performance tires can also reduce range and ride quality.

See our ordering guide (coming soon) or our Rivian tire guide for more info on tire selection.

How fast does it charge on DC fast chargers (10–80%), and what affects speed (temperature/SOC/charger power)?

A typical 10–80% stop is often on the order of tens of minutes, and it slows as the battery fills (taper). Speed depends mainly on battery temperature, starting state of charge, charger power, and your vehicle’s charging curve.

My experience has been that a 10-80% charge on a Rivian max pack (Gen 2) and Gen 1 (2022-2024) large pack takes about 45 minutes. This can increase significantly depending on various conditions.

How does Rivian Adventure Network (RAN) work, and how reliable is it for road trips?

RAN is Rivian’s branded fast-charging network that’s integrated into Rivian navigation/app for routing and charging. Coverage is expanding but smaller than the largest networks, so it’s best used as a strong “primary option” with a backup plan on long corridors.

On longer road trips we prefer Rivian Adventure Network chargers and use Tesla superchargers as a backup.

How will NACS/Supercharger access work for Rivian (adapter, supported sites, app integration)?

For many Rivians, Supercharger access is via a NACS DC adapter on compatible Tesla Superchargers.

Newer Rivians (notably 2026+) have a built-in NACS port, reducing adapter needs for NACS sites. Those vehicle will need a CCS to NACS DC adapter to charge at sites that do not support NACS connectors.

What should I check at delivery (paint, panel alignment, seals, interior, accessories, keys/phone key)?

Do a slow walkaround: paint/trim, panel gaps/alignment, glass and seals, interior condition, verify included accessories, and confirm key cards/fobs (if applicable) + phone key pairing work before you leave.

Use our full check checklist here to perform a detailed inspection and avoid surprises after delivery.

What should I set up immediately (app pairing, phone-as-key, driver profiles, charging schedules)?

Set up the Rivian app, phone key, driver profiles, home/primary charging locations, and scheduled charging (especially if you have off-peak rates).

See my video for a full rundown of all the settings I recommend you set immediately on delivery.

Where do I get service (service centers vs mobile service), and how long do repairs take?

Service is handled through Rivian Service Centers and mobile service for eligible jobs; timelines vary widely by region and issue severity, so plan for anything from quick turnaround to longer waits in busy areas.

You can request and schedule service appointments directly in the Rivian app.

What does the Rivian warranty cover (basic + battery/drivetrain terms)?

Rivian’s comprehensive warranty is typically 4 years/50,000 miles, while battery/drive system coverage is 8 years with mileage depending on configuration (e.g., Standard Dual 120k; Large/Max generally 150k).

See this Rivian article for full details on the Rivian vehicle warranty.

Should I buy extended coverage (Rivian Care), and what does it cover?

Consider it if you plan to keep the vehicle beyond the factory warranty and want cost predictability. Rivian Care offers (a) a Vehicle Service Contract for covered breakdown repairs after the factory warranty and (b) Preferred Vehicle Protection for items like windshield, tire/wheel, and paintless dent repair.

See this Rivian article for full details on the Rivian Care product.

How expensive is insurance compared to other EVs/trucks?

Often higher than mainstream vehicles due to repair costs and replacement value, but it varies heavily by driver profile and location—shop multiple carriers and compare.

You can also request the data your insurance provider used to quote your policy to make sure the information is accurate. A quote that seems too expensive is a signal that you need to shop around to make sure your getting a rate that's competitive.

What do tires cost and how often do they wear (especially larger wheels)?

Large, high-load EV truck tires are typically expensive, and heavier vehicles plus high torque can accelerate wear—expect shorter life if you drive aggressively or run performance-oriented tires.

See our full Rivian tire guide for all our recommended options and which options are best suited to how you will use the vehicle.

What’s the expected maintenance cost over time?

Routine maintenance is usually modest (tires, brakes, cabin filters, wipers, coolant/service checks), but unexpected costs tend to come from tires, suspension alignment, or out-of-warranty repairs.

How much will charging cost if I can’t charge at home?

Public fast charging is usually the most expensive way to charge; your cost depends on local pricing and how often you rely on DC fast chargers versus Level 2.

It will also depend on how much you drive in a given month or year. See our video on how to get a ballpark on your charging costs before purchase.

How good is the driver assistance system day-to-day (and what roads does it support)?

GEN 1 R1S/R1T (2022-2024):
Rivian Driver+ includes features like Highway Assist on select highways and Adaptive Cruise Control; it’s designed for supported road types and requires active driver supervision.

GEN 2 R1S/R1T (2025+):
The Rivian Autonomy Platform is Rivian’s Gen 2 driver-assistance stack: the hardware + sensors + compute + software features that power assisted driving and active safety on model year 2025+ R1S/R1T (Gen 2).

Rivian distinguishes it from Driver+, which is the assisted-driving feature set on Gen 1 (MY 2022–2024) vehicles.

Today, Rivian’s system is best understood as a Level 2-style driver-assistance suite: it can reduce workload, especially on highways, but it does not replace the driver and has explicit limitations (for example, Rivian notes hands-free features won’t stop/slow for traffic lights or stop signs).

Highway comfort and fatigue reduction: adaptive cruise + lane centering is the “daily value” most owners feel immediately.

Trajectory is positive on Gen 2: Rivian is investing heavily in autonomy compute and software, including custom silicon and broader hands-free coverage claims.

EV Outdoors' Take: If you drive a lot of highway miles, Autonomy+ is the differentiator—use the trial period (where offered) to decide if the hands-free behavior matches your routes and tolerance for interventions.

If you’re shopping Gen 1 vs Gen 2: Gen 2 is the better bet for autonomy improvements over time because Rivian positions the Autonomy Platform as the forward-looking stack.

How useful are the “Rivian-specific” features (camp mode, gear tunnel on R1T, storage, air compressor, etc.)?

Very useful if they match your use case: gear tunnel (R1T) and storage are great for overlanding/hauling organization; camp/utility features shine for outdoor and travel-heavy owners.

How does software updating work and how often do new features arrive?

Updates are delivered over the air and typically roll out in staged waves; feature cadence varies, but Rivian regularly ships iterative improvements rather than waiting for model-year refreshes.

Software updates happen frequently (usually but not always monthly). Connect+ subscribers get priority access to the latest software updates.

Do incentives apply to my purchase/lease, and can I stack them with state/utility rebates?

Often yes—buyers may qualify for federal/state incentives depending on eligibility rules, and many areas allow stacking with state, utility, and EVSE (charger) rebates. Leases frequently handle incentives differently (often via the lessor), so compare the “effective price” across both.

You can search for Federal/State/Local Incentives here

You can find utility based incentives here.

How do Rivian Rewards (referral codes/points) work for buyers and referrers?

A buyer can enter a Rivian owner’s referral code when ordering; both buyer and referrer earn points (amount depends on configuration) and the program includes three months of RAN charging as described by Rivian.

The terms of the Rivian rewards program can and will change frequestly. See the official Rivian Rewads terms here for the most updated program information.

Visit Our Rivian Video Library

Check out our Rivian YouTube Playlist

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