Are There Alternatives to Rivian Level2 Charger?

[NoICE]

Definitely worth checking with your electricity utility for possible rebates. Consumers Energy in MI gave me a rebate for 90% of what I paid for Tesla's Universal Wall charger that has been flawless with my R1T.

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[neodescis]

We've been using a plug-in GE WattStation since 2014, first for my wife's Leaf, and now for my R1T. Eventually it developed an issue where the power button would stick enough that I couldn't turn it on, but a bit of grease got it working again. It's been quite the trooper!

 

[RivianRocks25]

I really like my ChargePoint level 2 charger. It’s one of the few that can easily change connector and cables. I originally installed it to charge my 2024 Kia EV6 via J1772 connector. When I purchased my 2026 R1S in March. I went to ChargePoint’s site and ordered a replacement NACS connector cable for $99. Took me 10 minutes to install the new cable. Its was a seamless transition.

Charge Point is solid. Also has a cable that stays VERY flexible in the cold. Not all do and that can be important if the temp drops below 10 deg f. Check Tom for review of cold weather chargers cable flex.

Also avoid giving Musk any money if we can and there are plenty of EV home charge options available that don't involve him.

 

[AlphaSnowbordergirl]

My state will only allow TOU charging with 2 chargers and a few car models. So I have a chargepoint which was an easy install

 

[Rade]

The YouTube channel,Trucked Up Ev's, had a great video on the Grizzl-E charger and the rebates and incentives for Canadian residents to take advantage of the chargers V2H functions.



I wish Rhode Island had something like this; I would certainly sign up!

 

[aaronbowwwls]

I have an Emporia and it works great. You could go with any of the top 5 most commonly recommended here and be happy.

 

[Friar619]

This youtube channel : https://www.youtube.com/@StateOfChargeWithTomMoloughney

And his website are really good: https://evchargingstations.com/

 

[CraigB]

If they're ordering a new R2, they don't need the universal wall connector. They should go with the standard Tesla NACS charger which is even cheaper, $450. That's what I use for my 2026 R1T and it works great.

 

[Dasoss]

In eager anticipation of ordering an R2 Premium, the reality of needed an in-home level 2 charger is obvious. According to the Rivian Store, their level 2 charger is currently at $800 without installation. I have found several reputable companies offering level 2 charges for almost half the cost.

What are your feelings. Should I use a Rivian charger, or is it safe to go with another? In either case, the charger and 50A 240V line from my circuit panel will be installed by me.

Thanks!

Roger

I regret buying a Rivian Charger. Although it has been perfectly reliable, it's really expensive. I don't see any advantage of the Rivian level 2 charger over other brands. It is internet enabled, but it's dumb. Supposedly, it's firmware can be updated over the internet, but it never it has been. I think that it never will be. The Rivian charger integrates with the Rivian mobile App, but it's practically useless. The App tells you the serial number, the firmware revision, the current limiting setting, the network SSID, whether or not its plugged in--to a vehicle--, and the input voltage. It also reports charging current and power, but only during charging. It does not retain charging history. The charger is not programmable at all from the app. Because it uses a proprietary data protocol, it cannot communicate anything besides the Rivian App. Solar systems like th Tesla Powerwall 3 can integrate with some chargers and vehicles. You can check their websites. The Rivian charger won't.
Charging settings like schedule are handled by the vehicle.

 

[desert_sailor]

I’ve used a ChargePoint for nearly two years on my R1T and an ID.4 before that. It’s worked well and I got a nice rebate from my utility provider for using WeaveGrid. Be sure to check with your electricity provider and state websites for any deals on chargers and off peak rate plans.

 

[reodds]

Thanks once again to all who have given me such great advise! I live in NE Florida, and unfortunately, the power company (Florida Public Utility) does not offer any rebates for owning an EV...

 

[R2D2TOO]

Thanks once again to all who have given me such great advise! I live in NE Florida, and unfortunately, the power company (Florida Public Utility) does not offer any rebates for owning an EV...

Same is true here in Texas. I suspect I will be buying the Tesla NACS wall unit. I have Tesla solar panels and PowerWall batteries, so I already have and use the app. (Bought them before Elon came out as being, well, you know...nutty)

 

[mkennedy009]

With out nutty (and a shit tone of money), we would not be going to Mars.

 

[narmstrong79]

Highly rated: https://amzn.to/4d9lR2H

 

[R2D2TOO]

With out nutty (and a shit tone of money), we would not be going to Mars.

We aren't there - yet. But you do make a good point. We would not have the EVs we have today without Musk showing how well it could be done. OTA will be a defining feature of future cars - we have Elon to thank for that too. He's still nutty, but he has done an awful lot of technical innovation. I do give him credit for that.

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