But what if equivalent hp from BMW is $10k+ more? Are zonal architecture and cast frames really equivalent? Do people like R2’s off-road ability or just the image it projects—does it matter?
Maybe both cars are successful. It seems likely that the limiting factor on R2 uptake will be...
I agree with everything you said, although I think Tesla and Rivian may have a 5-year head start on zonal architecture and one-piece, unit-body casting. Actual pricing will be interesting. I am guessing $60k will get you a well-equipped R2 with 600+hp. It may be that the 600+hp step-up BMW will...
Rivian's tech advantage is much more than AI and Autonomy--the entire car is an integrated computer--not 20 subsystems like virtually every other old-school car brand. This is what the VW group actually paid for. The battery is 10-20% smaller than BMW, but if the R2 hits 300+ miles EPA and can...
The synthetic clay mitts and pads make it super ez. You do need to use a lubricating spray with them. Many iron removers are decent at lubricating the car for this purpose--this lets you do two important steps together. Wash the car and while it is still wet, lightly scrub all paint with the...
I often drive 1000ish miles from Minneapolis, MN to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. High-speed charging is plentiful along most route options. I charge to 100% in my garage the night before and generally stop three times to reach Ogallala NE, where the hotel I stay at has level 2 charging, so I can...
I doubt I will ever own another ICE vehicle. EVs are quieter, a lot quicker, handle better, have more space, and are much more reliable. I take 500 to 1500 mile road trips fairly often, and it is not a problem any longer. When I first got our 23 R1s 3 years ago, it was more challenging. The EV...
I use Gyeon CanCoat. It should be reapplied each year. Mohs last longe
i use Gyeon Can Coat once a year. It goes on very easy. I usually do a light synthetic clay wash with a Gyeon iron remover as a lube.
Yet Model Y is the leader of all cars. The software matters. I am guessing that R2 and Scout will be very different. Aside from the Macan, nothing is interesting on the list--at least to me. I wonder if the VW deal includes future Rivian autonomous tech.
It is true, once you feel the instant acceleration and quiet tranquility...I can't go back. I doubt many people will. What is wrong with Porsche acceleration, Cadillac quietness, and motorcycle fuel efficiency?
Europe is always cheaper. BMW has announced the US starting price, you can be sure a decently optioned car will be $10k more than the published starting price.
From BMW's website: "The first-ever iX3 50 xDrive is coming summer of 2026, with an MSRP starting around $60,000"
I have owned 3 BMWs over the past 15 years. Besides Porsche and Mercedes, I can not think of a brand that has a bigger gap between "starting price" and "normally equipped price". My...