The Smoking Tire Podcast – Episode Summary

Title: Rivian R1S Review; Is EV Depreciation Good?; Q&A!
Hosts: Zack Klapman & Matt Farah
Release Date: February 18, 2025

1. Introduction & Episode Overview

In this engaging episode of The Smoking Tire, hosts Zack Klapman and Matt Farah delve deep into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) with a comprehensive review of the newly released Rivian R1S. Despite initial plans to take the R1S off-roading, unforeseen circumstances led the duo to pivot towards an in-depth discussion and comparison with other electric SUVs like Tesla's Cybertruck, the electric G-Wagon, and the Ford Lightning. Additionally, the hosts explore the intriguing topic of EV depreciation and its implications on the enthusiast market, culminating in a dynamic Q&A session addressing listener inquiries.

2. Rivian R1S Review

A. Off-Roading Attempts and Initial Impressions

The episode kicks off with Zack and Matt recounting their two unsuccessful attempts to take the Rivian R1S off-roading. The first attempt was thwarted by being "winded out," while the second faced unexpected road closures, leading them to shift focus to an extensive review instead. Zack remarks at 00:05 "the off road park is closed," highlighting the abrupt change in plans.

B. Performance and Powertrain Analysis

The R1S is equipped with a tri-motor setup, delivering impressive power comparable to the first-generation quad-motor version. At 06:03, Zack notes, "it runs a low 11 in the quarter mile. Zero to 60 is like 2.9. It's very, very quick, as you would expect and unnecessarily quick." However, the hosts debate the practicality of such power in a 7-seater SUV, with Matt suggesting, "you rarely need that much power."

C. Handling and Suspension Dynamics

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the vehicle's handling, especially in different suspension modes. While in comfort mode, the R1S exhibits some "string strange rear end behaviors" (07:52), likened to vintage rally cars like the Audi Quattro and Lancia Stratos. The hosts commend the availability of a firm mode that rectifies these quirks, ensuring more predictable handling.

Zack elaborates, "it's like the Ferrari of SUV steering ratios. Very, very sharp steering ratio," emphasizing the need for the rear steer system to be in sync with the front to prevent an "unsettled" feel (09:59).

D. Interior Quality and Design

Comparing the R1S to competitors, Matt praises its interior quality, likening it to the best aspects of Volvo while criticizing Tesla's minimalist approach. He states, "the layout of the interior generally is really nice," and appreciates the premium feel, though he expresses minor grievances with the door handles' heft (10:51).

E. Technological Features and User Interface

The R1S offers a native navigation system without CarPlay or Android Auto integration. While Zack finds the system responsive, he acknowledges limitations in offline functionality, especially in remote areas. Both hosts discuss the challenges of touchscreen controls versus physical buttons, advocating for a hybrid approach to minimize driver distraction (16:57).

F. Battery and Range

With a substantial 141 kWh battery, the R1S boasts an impressive range of up to 350 miles, surpassing competitors like the Cybertruck by approximately 40%. Matt concurs, "the range is really good," attributing it to Rivian's efficiency (14:58).

G. Pricing and Market Positioning

Starting at $105,000, the tri-motor R1S is priced competitively against luxury SUVs like the Range Rover, which Matt notes, "you could go pretty loaded up Rivian for about the same money as base model Range Rover" (31:06). They discuss Rivian's value proposition, emphasizing its electric foundation and superior build quality without the premium price tag of traditional luxury brands.

3. Is EV Depreciation Good?

The hosts explore the impact of EV depreciation on market dynamics. Zack posits that while depreciation could make used EVs more accessible, enhancing mass adoption, "without home charging, EVs become a lot less appealing," limiting the overall effectiveness of depreciation as a growth catalyst (43:43).

Matt adds, "It will help, but I don't think it'll help as much as really improving the high-speed charging network," underscoring the necessity of robust infrastructure for EV proliferation.

4. Q&A Session

The episode transitions into a lively Q&A segment where listeners pose a variety of automotive-related questions:

• Sports Cars with High Mileage: Zack and Matt discuss reliable sports cars that can endure over 100,000 miles, recommending models like the air-cooled 911s, Ferrari 360s, and high-mileage NSXs. Zack shares anecdotal evidence of well-maintained high-mileage vehicles, emphasizing their durability.

• Porsche versus NSX Choices: In response to building a decade-spanning garage, Zack and Matt recommend balancing exotic, daily, and luxury cars, suggesting models like the Pantera, Ferrari F50, and LS series for practicality.

• EVs vs. Traditional Investments: Addressing the viability of investing in shared car ownership versus traditional investments, Zack argues that actively owning and maintaining a car can offer better returns and personal satisfaction compared to passive investments in car shares.

• Headlight Brightness Concerns: The hosts express concerns over excessively bright LED headlights, agreeing that they can be problematic for oncoming drivers. Matt references an article by Alana Sher from Car and Driver that delves into the issue, advocating for better regulation and design practices (71:45).

• Acquiring OEM Loaner Cars: Providing advice to new content creators seeking OEM loaner cars, Zack emphasizes creativity and demonstrating value to manufacturers, despite recognizing the challenges faced by those with smaller audiences.

• Track-Specific Modifications: For listeners looking to enhance their vehicles for track performance, Zack advises prioritizing reliability and grip through tire upgrades before considering performance mods like sway bars.

• Watch Recommendations: When asked about affordable titanium watches, Zack highlights brands like Oris and Tudor, while sharing his personal preference for Bell & Ross for aviation-inspired designs.

5. Closing Remarks

Despite initial setbacks with their off-roading plans, Zack and Matt offer a thorough and insightful review of the Rivian R1S, enriched by comparisons to industry competitors and thoughtful discussions on EV market trends. They conclude with a heartfelt plea for adopting kittens from shelters and a light-hearted jab at missed content opportunities, ensuring listeners leave informed and entertained.

Notable Quotes

• Zack Klapman (06:03): "It runs a low 11 in the quarter mile. Zero to 60 is like 2.9. It's very, very quick, as you would expect and unnecessarily quick."

• Matt Farah (10:51): "The layout of the interior generally is really nice."

• Zack Klapman (16:57): "Hunt and peck on a touchscreen while driving is not a way that is optimized for humans to control things."

• Zack Klapman (43:43): "Without home charging, EVs become a lot less appealing."

Time Stamps for Reference

• 00:05 – Introduction to the episode and sponsor mention.
• 02:35 – Off-roading attempts and transition to the review.
• 06:03 – Discussion on Rivian R1S's performance metrics.
• 07:52 – Handling and suspension dynamics in comfort mode.
• 10:51 – Interior quality and comparison with competitors.
• 14:58 – Battery capacity and range discussion.
• 16:57 – User interface and control systems.
• 31:06 – Pricing and market positioning compared to Range Rover.
• 43:43 – EV depreciation and its impact on adoption.
• 71:45 – Concerns over bright LED headlights.
• 73:27 – Final thoughts on headlight functionality.
• 75:49 – Advice on acquiring OEM loaner cars.
• 78:35 – Track-specific modifications advice.
• 61:56 – Watch recommendations.
• 71:59 – Headlight brightness and regulation discussion.

Enjoyed this summary? Be sure to tune into The Smoking Tire for more in-depth automotive discussions and insights!