### Rivian Opens Its Adventure Network to All EVs, Starting with Joshua Tree Outpost
In an important step forward for increasing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure accessibility, Rivian has officially made its exclusive **Rivian Adventure Network** of fast chargers available to non-Rivian EVs. The inaugural location to accommodate all EVs is the **Joshua Tree Charging Outpost** in California. This development signifies a crucial advancement in Rivian’s mission to broaden the usability of its charging network and contribute to the wider acceptance of EVs across the United States.
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### **What Is the Rivian Adventure Network?**
The Rivian Adventure Network, which was initially introduced in 2021, consists of a network of **DC fast chargers** strategically positioned to assist Rivian owners during road trips and outdoor excursions. Until this point, the network catered exclusively to Rivian vehicles, including the R1T electric pickup and R1S SUV. By opening the Joshua Tree Outpost to other EVs, Rivian is indicating a change in its approach, aiming to make its charging infrastructure more inclusive.
Currently, the network includes **91 operational sites** throughout the U.S., with an additional 12 locations in development. Each site generally features at least six DC fast chargers, and Rivian has ambitious plans to establish **3,500 fast chargers** as part of the network. These chargers are engineered to provide high-speed charging, rated at **900 volts**, ensuring swift and effective energy replenishment for EVs.
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### **Who Can Use the Chargers?**
The Joshua Tree Charging Outpost is now available to any EV outfitted with a **CCS1 charging port**, which is the norm for most non-Tesla EVs in North America. Furthermore, Tesla vehicles or EVs with **NACS (North American Charging Standard)** ports can utilize the chargers with an adapter. Rivian has also revealed plans for a hardware upgrade in the future to incorporate **native NACS cables**, which would simplify the experience for Tesla drivers and other NACS-compatible vehicles.
Notably, Rivian itself intends to convert its vehicles from CCS1 to NACS plugs starting in 2025, aligning with the industry’s increasing momentum toward Tesla’s charging standard.
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### **Why Is This Important?**
The choice to extend the Rivian Adventure Network to all EVs represents a significant milestone for the EV sector. Here’s why:
1. **Enhanced Accessibility for EV Drivers**: By permitting non-Rivian EVs to access its chargers, Rivian is tackling one of the main obstacles to EV adoption—charging infrastructure availability. Drivers of various EV brands now find themselves with more options for fast charging, particularly in remote or adventure-focused locations.
2. **Compliance with Federal Funding Initiatives**: The chargers at the Joshua Tree Outpost adhere to the criteria set forth by the **National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI)** and **Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI)** initiatives. These programs, part of President Joe Biden’s initiatives, provide federal funding to states to develop EV charging frameworks. By opening its network to all EVs, Rivian qualifies to seek this funding, which could expedite the growth of its charging network.
3. **Promotion of Widespread Electrification**: Rivian Founder and CEO RJ Scaringe underscored the necessity of a robust charging network in realizing widespread electrification. “Creating exceptional products like the R1T and R1S only accounts for half the equation,” Scaringe remarked. “To achieve widespread electrification, there also needs to be a highly functional charging network.”
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### **The Joshua Tree Outpost: More Than Just Chargers**
The Joshua Tree Charging Outpost is not merely a charging station; it’s crafted to enhance the EV drivers’ experience. The site boasts:
– **12 DC fast chargers** capable of servicing a variety of EVs.
– A **lounge and library**, providing a comfortable area for drivers to unwind while their vehicles charge.
– A selection of **Rivian merchandise**, appealing to both brand enthusiasts and EV supporters.
This emphasis on cultivating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere is indicative of Rivian’s dedication to redefining the EV charging experience.
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### **Future Plans for the Rivian Adventure Network**
Although the Joshua Tree Outpost is the first location to open its doors to non-Rivian EVs, Rivian has yet to reveal a schedule for broadening this accessibility to its other 90+ charging sites. Nonetheless, this initiative fits seamlessly with Rivian’s long-term objective of making EV charging “simple, sustainable, and convenient” for all drivers.
The firm’s decision to adopt Tesla’s NACS standard by 2025 further highlights its commitment to interoperability and user-friendliness. As an increasing number of automakers and charging networks shift to NACS, the EV charging landscape is becoming more cohesive, benefiting all EV owners.
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### **A Step Toward a Unified Charging Ecosystem**
Rivian’s choice to open its Adventure Network to other EVs is a significant victory for the entire EV industry.
