Here’s how I charged the Rivian R1T in the desert – Roadshow [CNET]

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Power Innovations’ original plan was to use a hydrogen fuel cell to keep those batteries charged. In fact, the company tested the fuel cell technology with Rivian before my trip and everything worked as planned. However, getting permits in order can be a bit of a hassle. With a compressed timeline and multiple counties in both California and Nevada needing to sign off on a semi-truck full of hydrogen, Power Innovations had to go with plan B.

I’m the first to admit that using a generator to charge batteries that then charge an electric truck is far from ideal. However, a Tier 4 generator complies with the strictest EPA standards, emitting less particulate matter and lower levels of nitrogen oxides. If you’re going to have a generator, this is the least-polluting way to do it.

Power Innovations hopes to bring the MEC, with the proper hydrogen permits, out to other far-flung locations to provide power for intrepid EV owners. Further, Rivian is working on its own Adventure Network and Jeep has promised solar chargers in wheeling hotspots like Moab, Utah, and on the Rubicon Trail. As off-road-capable EVs become more ubiquitous, the infrastructure will improve no doubt. Kudos to those taking the first steps.

Charging the Rivian R1T off-grid with Power Innovations

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