EVs (electric vehicles) are driving onto the scene in many areas of the world, offering greater opportunities for drivers and communities to save money in the long run and to contribute to a healthier living environment for all.
Growth is imminent too, with the share of electric cars in total sales more than tripled in three years from about 4% in 2020 to remarkable 14% in 2022. The IEA expects to see 14 million in sales by the end of 2023, representing a 35% year-on-year increase. As a result, electric cars could account for 18% of total car sales across the full calendar year.
Here in the Southeast, I have already reported on EV adoption, comparing it to the area with leading adoption, the West. It is exciting to see the growth that has already happened in my region and a peek into what is going to come next, but what about the farthest reaching and most isolated regions of this country?
In September, Rivian announced that it is preparing to open its first service center in Hawaii by the summer of 2024. The company offers a tailored online ordering system and a direct-to-consumer approach.
In Hawaii, the 15,181-square-foot facility will be fully equipped to manage vehicle deliveries, along with comprehensive bumper-to-bumper maintenance and repairs for Rivian’s R1 vehicles and commercial vans. The company offers both remote and field service.
This service center is key to expanding the company’s strategy to build out its service network by more than 100% next year.
The company’s lineup includes the all-electric R1T pickup and R1S sports utility vehicle, both built on an innovative skateboard platform that integrates essential components beneath the wheel height, optimizing interior space while housing the battery pack, drive units, suspension, braking, and thermal system. The R1T and R1S boast 400 and 390 miles of range, respectively.
Of course, with all this growth and adoption across the world, we also need to keep in mind there are still some hurdles to adoption including high upfront costs, vehicle range, lack of infrastructure, and a lack of awareness.
Still, as we continue to embrace the opportunities and address the challenges, we will soon see greater adoption of EVs around the world. Expect these vehicles to pick up speed as we move into the coming year.
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