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Electric Cars

Rivian's Joshua Tree Outpost: The Ideal EV Charging Spot

2024-12-09

The new Rivian outpost stands as a remarkable destination for electric vehicle (EV) owners and enthusiasts alike. With its array of amenities and charging capabilities, it has redefined the charging station experience.

Experience Unparalleled Charging and Relaxation at the Rivian Outpost

Charging Facilities

The outpost boasts 12 powerful 900-volt 300kW CCS chargers, accessible to all EVs. While Teslas require an adapter, this provides a convenient charging option. There is a dedicated pullthrough spot for those with trailers, although longer rigs might face a tight turn if other cars are charging across the lot. Rivian owners can use the app or tap their credit cards at the charger, paying 46 cents per kWh. Non-Rivian cars can also tap their cards and pay 60 cents per kWh. The electricity comes from the local grid, and Rivian ensures a sustainable energy source by matching delivered charger kWh with energy derived from solar, wind, and non-dam hydropower through a partnership with Emrgy.

Emrgy places turbines in existing irrigation canals to provide continuous renewable energy without disrupting rivers and creeks. This commitment to sustainability adds to the appeal of the Rivian outpost.

The Experience

Upon entering the outpost, one is greeted by a charming conversation pit with Jenga and lovely coffee table books. Local products are available for sale, along with free coffee from Joshua Tree Coffee Company. Although not a coffee drinker myself, others have praised the quality. Snacks and drinks, such as roasted garlic Spanish white anchovies, lemon caper mackerel, organic crackers, and pesto, can be purchased. It's the perfect setup for a bougie charcuterie board. Even the sodas are organic.

There is a delightful deck off the back door with beautiful landscaping and a play area for both adults and kids. While not fully completed when visited, it will soon feature hammocks and playground equipment. The highlight is a four-foot-high boulder with rock climbing holds for the little ones to enjoy. From the deck, one can admire the stunning view of the Mojave Desert, with its chollas and Joshua trees.

For those interested in testing out a Rivian, the outpost offers this opportunity. An Adventure Lab is also available to educate consumers about the vehicles and will serve as a meeting place for future classes and seminars. All indoor spaces are air-conditioned, a necessity in the scorching summer heat, and there is ample outdoor shade space.

Future Adventuring

The charging station greatly enhances off-roading in Rivians. Joshua Tree is surrounded by vast open desert with various terrains, from rock crawling to soft sand. The national park also offers off-road trails that are truly beautiful. The R1T performs exceptionally well here, even without mechanical differential lockers or a low range.

Rivian plans to open more outposts in Texas, Colorado, Illinois, Montana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New York. This expansion opens up the possibility of exciting Rivian road trips, with practical charging stations along the way where one can enjoy a soda, use the restroom, and assemble a trendy charcuterie board.

There's an exciting development in Boise when it comes to renting electric vehicles. A new program has emerged, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to get around.

Unlock Affordable Electric Mobility in Boise

Station Locations and Availability

The Affordable Mobility Program provides two electric vehicles for rent. One can be found at the Franklin EV station on Franklin Rd. and Curtis Street. The other is stationed at the St. Luke’s EV station on Broadway Ave. and Warm Springs Ave., right behind Cafe Zupas and near the Ronald McDonald House. This makes it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike.

These stations are maintained by GoForth, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to clean transportation. With this program, there are now more options for getting around Boise in an eco-friendly manner.

Funding and Approval Process

The carsharing program is primarily funded through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technology Office. Before a driver can take one of the EVs for a spin for the first time, there is an approval process. This includes providing a valid driver’s license and a three-year history without any major accidents or DUIs. It can take up to five business days for approval.

Once approved, drivers can reserve one of the cars through the Mobility Development Operations (MDO) Carshare app. Approvals are also managed through the app, along with reporting any maintenance needs or problems. This streamlined process ensures a smooth experience for users.

Rental Rates and Usage

Drivers can rent the EVs for $5 per hour or $50 per day. This relatively inexpensive pricing makes it accessible for a wide range of users. When drivers are done with the car, they simply return it to the station and plug it into the charger.

The program aims to provide a sustainable transportation option that is both convenient and affordable. By expanding transportation options, more people can access needed resources at lower costs.

Future Plans and Impact

AMP has a fleet of 50 EVs that will be deployed in eight states by the end of 2025. In Boise and other states, the stations are located near affordable housing and underserved communities. This helps to address transportation needs in these areas and promotes sustainable living.

St. Luke’s is also pleased to offer access to this convenient transportation option. As Ginger McCabe, the Vice President of Operations at St. Luke’s, said, “The ability to easily access and use an electric vehicle near our facility for errands or various trips is a valuable resource for everyone.”

The City of Milwaukee has been granted nearly 15 million dollars from the federal government to establish a network of 53 electric vehicle charging stations within city limits and at various locations in Milwaukee County. This significant grant was awarded through the United States Department of Transportation’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure program, enabling the construction of charging stations not only in the city but also at county parks and cultural sites. As stated by Council Members in a joint statement released on Monday, last year the Common Council adopted the city’s Climate and Equity Plan, which set ambitious goals such as reducing community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Supporting electric vehicles for both city and public use is a crucial part of attaining these goals.

Key Features and Benefits of the Electric Vehicle Charging Station Network

Priority Siting at Milwaukee Public Library Locations and Disadvantaged Neighborhoods

The Common Council plans to prioritize siting the charging stations at Milwaukee Public Library locations throughout the city. This ensures accessibility and convenience for library users and the community at large. Additionally, at least 40% of the chargers will be placed in disadvantaged neighborhoods, addressing equity issues and providing essential charging infrastructure to areas that often lack such facilities. By doing so, the project aims to promote sustainable transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in these communities. 2: This focused siting approach not only benefits the residents of disadvantaged neighborhoods but also contributes to the overall goal of creating a more sustainable and inclusive transportation system. It shows the city’s commitment to addressing environmental and social disparities through the deployment of electric vehicle charging stations.

Public-Private Partnership for Station Installation

The installation of the charging stations will be completed through a public-private partnership with a yet-to-be-named partner. This collaborative approach brings together the resources and expertise of both the public and private sectors, ensuring the efficient and timely completion of the project. The partnership will likely leverage the strengths of both entities to maximize the impact of the charging station network. 2: Such a partnership model has the potential to attract additional funding and resources, as well as bring in innovative technologies and best practices. It also provides an opportunity for local businesses and entrepreneurs to participate in the growth of the electric vehicle ecosystem.

Project Phases and Progress

The project will be completed in two phases. In the first phase, the City will finalize the locations of the charging stations in accordance with federal criteria and conduct further public engagement. This step ensures that the stations are strategically placed to meet the needs of the community and comply with regulatory requirements. Once the locations are approved, preliminary engineering will be carried out, and the process to procure a partner will begin. 2: In the second phase, with subsequent Council approval of the locations, construction will commence on the stations. This sequential approach allows for careful planning and execution, ensuring the quality and functionality of the charging infrastructure. It also provides an opportunity for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure the stations are meeting the expected demands.