As any EV driver surely knows, the availability of chargers is frequently cited as a barrier to widespread EV adoption, especially for drivers concerned about making treks through remote areas. With this in mind, Rivian just announced a new partnership with Under Canvas to “bring EV charging to some of the most beautiful campgrounds in the US.”
Perhaps this should come as no surprise, as Rivian has long promoted its EVs as “adventure vehicles” across marketing campaigns, and clearly emphasize placing their vehicles in “adventure scenarios.” To this effect, the new partnership will bring EV chargers to several camp sites, in what is being called the Rivian Waypoints and Rivian Adventure Network.
Rivian chargers
“Today, Under Canvas and Rivian announced a first-of-its kind partnership between the two brands, with the addition of the electric vehicle maker and automotive technology company’s open-network Waypoints chargers to the upscale, outdoor hospitality brand’s camp locations,” said the release. “Rivian Waypoints will be available for guest use at Under Canvas Moab and Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase in time for the 2022 season.”
“The agreement supports both companies’ missions to make outdoor exploration more accessible and encourage people to adventure responsibly by reducing their carbon footprint while exploring the country’s most iconic national parks and monument.” The statement goes on to clarify that the charging network will be operational for all electric vehicles driven by guests, used during months of operation.
Rivian R1T
For those unfamiliar, Under Canvas is a bit of a household name in the US – specifically, the company is known for its luxury camping sites at fan-favourite locations around the country, including Zion, Moab, Grand Canyon, and more.
Although the partnership is beginning with two sites, it sounds like both companies are eager to expand the project in the future. “Partnering with Under Canvas felt very natural as we both aim to inspire adventure and challenge ourselves to do this in environmentally thoughtful ways,” shares Trent Warnke, Senior Director of Energy and Charging Solutions at Rivian. “We look forward to integrating Under Canvas’ extraordinary campsites with our Waypoints charging network – a network that’s planned to have over 10,000 open-network chargers.”
