R1T Truck

Make
Rivian
Segment
Sports Car

Charging is one of the biggest deterrents for consumers hoping to make the EV switch. Automakers are trying their utmost to improve the situation; some offer free charging while others are exploring alternative solutions. Yet, range anxiety remains a concern - what does one do if you're stranded with minimal range, for example?

If you find yourself near a Rivian R1T (and a helpful owner), you may just be in luck. The following video demonstrates just how easy it is to charge an electric vehicle using the all-electric pickup truck. So, if you ever find yourself in a precarious charging situation, here's what you'll need.

First off, vehicle-to-vehicle charging will require a three-prong neutral bonding adapter (approx. $18). This is plugged into the Rivian after the charging cables have been connected.

At first, the charging doesn't appear to work. As it turns out, the Tesla Model 3 is unable to glean energy from the Rivian via its cable; the presenter notes the electric sedan throws up an error code. However, it works perfectly fine when using the R1T's charging cable. For this to work, you'll need a specific adapter to convert the SAE J1772 to a Tesla connector.

Stepping into the Tesla, the touchscreen shows the vehicle is charging at 5A. A quick calculation shows the Rivian can provide a maximum of 12.5A. However, the Model 3's charging system will only allow for a maximum of 12A. At the beginning of the experiment, the Tesla indicates 62% with 140 miles of range. After an hour, the Tesla had gained six miles of range and 2% of battery life.

Comparatively, the Rivian started with 129 miles/44% and lost eight miles of range and 2% of its charge. While nowhere near as quick as a fast charger, this could come in handy if an EV driver finds themselves in a spot of bother - provided you've got the necessary components.

As technology progresses, EV charging is only set to improve. As an example, Ford's sought-after F-150 Lightning is capable of powering an entire home for several days. That being said, this is only available when fitted with additional equipment. Elsewhere, companies such as Hyundai are working on a unique system whereby EVs will be able to reroute unused electricity back into the grid.

This will undoubtedly come in handy as more EVs rely on the country's electricity infrastructure. Porsche and Mercedes-Benz are working on a similar project, too.