Rivians Here, Rivians There

We try to stop by Rivian in Denver on occasion just to check out the scene. This was the most R1Ts and R1Ss I’ve seen over there. The parking lot was packed with what appeared to be new inventory. Some Rivian owners are going to be getting an early Christmas present.

“We really are striving to position ourselves as the company that enables and promotes adventure…”

-RJ Scaringe (Rivian Founder)

My Approach

Tax season has arrived, but don't let the thought of crunching numbers dampen your dreams of owning a brand-new EV especially if you've got a refund headed your way! With an overwhelming influx of news and updates each day, it's easy to feel lost. But don't worry, we've got your back! Here's how I’d approach the purchase of a new EV:

1. Pick Your Perfect Vehicle Type. As a parent who needs extra space for the kids and all-wheel drive for those frosty winter months, I'm narrowing my search down to SUVs and trucks.

2. Price, Incentives, and Setting Your Budget. Everyone's budget will differ, but let's assume I’m aiming to maximize the price and incentives for my purchase. Sounds simple, right? Well, sort of.

Federal Level Incentives: Bear in mind that the Treasury and IRS could update these qualifications. However, as of now, here are the rules to qualify for a $7,500 Tax Credit:

The vehicle's MSRP must not exceed $80,000 for vans, SUVs, and trucks or $55,000 for other vehicles.
Modified AGI must not exceed $300,000 for married couples filing jointly, $225,000 for heads of households, or $150,000 for all other filers.
The vehicle must be for your personal use, not for resale.
The vehicle must be used primarily in the U.S.

State-Level Incentives: As a Colorado resident, I can take advantage of an additional $2,000 tax credit. Don't forget to check your state's incentives here. Also, it’s probably prudent to consult with your CPA.

With these guidelines in mind, I'm setting my budget at a maximum of $80,000 for an SUV or truck. Keep an eye out for part 2 of this series in Thursday's newsletter, where I'll share my approach to finding my perfect EV!

In other EV News

The Biden-Harris Administration has opened applications for the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program, providing $2.5 billion over five years to fund electric vehicle charging and alternative-fueling infrastructure in communities across the US.
South Korean auto parts manufacturer Hyundai Mobis has successfully developed a groundbreaking in-wheel system, a first-of-its-kind technology that has not yet been mass-produced in the industry. The in-wheel system allows independent control of each wheel, significantly enhancing power efficiency and driving performance.
The 5 series from BMW is going fully electric.
LiveWire has announced its entrance into the European market as part of its global expansion and electrification of motorcycling. On March 15th, the company introduced the LiveWire ONE to Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.
7-Eleven announced its proprietary EV charging network, 7Charge, which is currently operating in select US locations and will soon expand to Canada, aiming to become one of North America's largest retail EV fast-charging networks.
The 25,000 euro EV with nearly 300 miles of range from VW. Introducing the ID. 2all.
East Bay-based luxury electric vehicle manufacturer Lucid Group has opened its 40th global store and service center in Corte Madera, California.
Cummins has launched a new brand called Accelera, which combines its EV and hydrogen technologies for its New Power division. Accelera will collaborate with school bus manufacturer Blue Bird to produce 1,000 battery-electric school buses in the next 12-18 months.
The average range of EVs sold in the US has increased to 290 miles on a single charge, a significant rise from the 72 miles average range in 2011.