The Tesla Cybertruck never launched the promised range-extending battery. However, a team of electric vehicle enthusiasts has modified a Rivian R1T to include such a feature. This upgrade highlights the hurdles of designing electric trucks.
The modified 2022 R1T now has 310 kilowatt-hours of energy storage, offering a theoretical range of 620 miles. But real-world tests showed it would be less, especially on highways. The downside? The truck’s bed is completely filled with battery modules, so it’s not very functional as a pickup anymore. Still, the team is focused on a bigger goal: breaking the Cannonball Run record from Manhattan to Los Angeles for electric vehicles.
You can find the full journey on the YouTube channel Aging Wheels. In their latest video, the group, led by Ryan, tries again to beat the record after encountering issues on their first attempt. They’ve made adjustments to the Rivian, improving its performance.
One aspect that stands out is the team’s ability to engineer a range-extending battery from scratch. They sourced extra Rivian packs from crash-tested vehicles and built a “Mega Pack” that can charge faster than the Rivian itself at some stations.
What’s particularly innovative is their cooling system, made from an ice chest that needs to be refilled at each charge stop. This setup actually works well, helping extend the R1T’s range significantly.
Building ultra-long-range electric trucks is a complicated task. EV trucks tend to be heavy and not very aerodynamic, which impacts their efficiency. The Rivian, for instance, is a great vehicle, but many consumers are wary about its range and cost compared to traditional gas trucks.
For perspective, Rivian’s Max-Pack truck offers an EPA-estimated 420 miles of range—this drops significantly during highway driving. To achieve a range of over 500 miles, manufacturers need to focus on battery energy density and efficiency. The ongoing challenge remains evident: where do all the batteries fit in a truck?
In this case, the team’s modified R1T managed to travel an impressive 510 miles at an average speed of 68 mph, though it remains unclear if they set a new Cannonball Run record. You can catch the updates in the video linked above.
Interestingly, a recent survey from Consumer Reports found that 48% of potential electric vehicle buyers cite range anxiety as a top concern. As battery technology improves, this anxiety may lessen, making EV trucks a more viable option for everyday users.
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