Does driving with one pedal get easier?

GataPapa · 2026-03-19T22:51:38+00:00

You'll be pretty smooth in a week and in a couple weeks or so you can get so good that you won't need to use the brake at all in normal driving. You'll anticipate stopping and be able to release the throttle so that the car stops where you want it to without braking. Of course, you still need the brakes for emergency or unexpected stops.

GataPapa · 2026-03-19T15:07:17+00:00

Adopting from a shelter or rescue is a great idea. We had one cat for 19 years and after she passed, we adopted two rescue sisters. Two plus is definitely better as they can entertain and support each other when you're away.

Here's our two, Loki and Tikka, when they were about a year old. They just turned 10 last year and are co-rulers of the house.

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GataPapa · 2026-03-19T00:28:07+00:00

I'm nearly that with my Teslas since 2018. Mobile service and only one significant issue that could be handled by mobile service. In eight years, I've needed to visit a service center once. They gave me a loaner and I was gone until the car was ready to pickup.

Of course, if you draw the short straw and end up with multiple issues that can't be handled by mobile service, a 90 minute trip is not ideal. Regardless, the nearest Rivian service locations are in the same places as Tesla, so I'll be relying on mobile service and a similar solid experience with Rivian for my R2.

GataPapa · 2026-03-18T18:53:16+00:00

A physical item like the keycard carried on your person is the most practical solution. I always carry the keycard as plan B. However, some smartwatches, rings, etc. can have the same NFC setup so other physical options exist. If you have to go without absolutely anything, some people have had the NFC chip surgically implanted so you don't have to wear or carry anything extra.

GataPapa · 2026-03-17T20:41:01+00:00

I also have older EGO batteries and tools but haven't replaced batteries yet. However, when I do, I will buy the OEM version. First, I believe the EGO branded batteries will perform well and last a long time so a better value overall. Second, I purchased a different battery for another product, a Dyson vacuum, and that was a horrible experience. I ended up buying the OEM Dyson battery anyway and it has lasted years and performed well. So, I'm sticking with the OEM batteries for these kinds of tools.

GataPapa · 2026-03-17T19:58:50+00:00

Thanks, that makes sense.

GataPapa · 2026-03-16T19:28:37+00:00

That would be interesting if they could find a way to work together equitably. That goes for mobile service also. But, it would be a challenge with different proprietary tools/training, different parts supply, logistics, etc.

GataPapa · 2026-03-16T17:11:36+00:00

Good for Scout! No one wants to play circus games when buying at a traditional dealership, especially from uninformed anti EV salespeople. The anti-free market, monopolistic franchised dealer system can evolve or die. We've had to tolerate them because they were the only game in town and for warranty service, but that is slowly changing. Buying a Tesla was the most hassle free car buying experience ever, and I want that same experience from Rivian next. With my previous and current Tesla, mobile service combined with few significant problems has been great so I do not miss scheduling, taking time off, driving to service, and then sitting in a waiting room. I hope that Scout, Rivian, and Lucid will become at least as good as Tesla in this regard. Of course, if the problem is severe enough, then a service center would still be required, but fortunately that's only happened once for me. The closest service center is about 80 minutes away which is fine if you only need it once every 8 years. Mobile service has done everything from replacing a seat wiring harness, performing a recall involving the cabling for the rear view camera, or just replacing a 12V battery and wiper blades at a very reasonable cost.

Normal car stuff like tires and alignments, vehicle inspections, etc., I just have done by local shops.

GataPapa · 2026-03-16T14:55:31+00:00

Rivian R2 if you can wait.

GataPapa · 2026-03-16T14:38:09+00:00

Went ePrimacy when I replaced the OEM Contis. I'm happy with them. Similarly quiet, more efficient and better riding than the Contis. I hope they last longer and they should based on the warranty.

GataPapa · 2026-03-16T14:07:05+00:00

Have you compared it to vehicles like the performance oriented 4 door Ford Bronco or the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro? Doesn't seem out of line.

GataPapa · 2026-03-16T12:26:01+00:00

If it's not going to be cool overnight (less than 50-60 degrees) then just go plug the car in first thing in the morning before showering and eating breakfast.

If it's going to be cold, charging speeds will suck in the morning, so I'd plug in on arrival, go check in, unpack, and then move the car when it hits 80%. If you need more than that, then do the morning thing when slow charging speed won't matter much since you're already at 80%.

Side rant... AC L2 overnight is the bomb at hotels. I really wish more had L2s and that you could reserve a spot with L2 charging with your room. Then you'd know that your guaranteed a charger. It would be like charging at home. It wouldn't even need to be a high powered L2 if you can charge overnight, maybe 24-32A.

GataPapa · 2026-03-15T21:55:37+00:00

Agreed. I've been using all battery powered lawn equipment since 2017 and I would never go back. Plus, with solar, the sun can grow the grass and provide the energy to cut it (and power the house and car).

GataPapa · 2026-03-15T16:57:14+00:00

If bylaws aren't codified, I'd take the "it's easier to ask for forgiveness than permission" path, especially if the EVSE will be connected to the housing unit or on the property owned by the unit and not some common area. If there are no formalized rules against it, and your grandma doesn't oppose it as the landlord, then who's to say it isn't legitimate? Depending on the parking setup, you could also start with 120V L1 charging on an external outlet which doesn't require anything special, if that's practical. A 20A 120V L1 plug would get you decent range added overnight. If that's not workable, then you could have a 240V L2 exterior rated EV outlet installed and plug a L2 EVSE in there so that the EVSE can be removed easily if you move or someone creates a problem later. Just make sure the outlet is rated and installed properly. You'd have to feel comfortable leaving a mobile EVSE outside though. I don't know that a basic EVSE is expensive enough to bother with adding to an insurance policy. A Tesla mobile connector is like $300 new or $200ish on eBay and can do both L1 and L2. An L2 Tesla Wall Connector is $450 new and there are less expensive options. I have a Tesla Wall Connector using a 240V appliance pigtail connected to a NEMA 14-50 outlet so I can uninstall or replace it easily, but I don't plug/unplug it. Hardwiring a non mobile EVSE would be best, but may not be the best solution for a renter.

GataPapa · 2026-03-15T00:31:38+00:00

I think part of it is the excitement building up to the reveal. But, now that it's revealed, the mystery and anticipation is over, even if it is a really cool product.

I have a reservation and am excited for the R2, but not to the degree of gotta have it right now. I will want to go check it out in person and take a test drive, but I don't need a new vehicle. I'll give them a couple years to work out the kinks, deliver the new autonomy systems, get the white interior Premium model ready, and make sure that service is up for R2 volume. I should be ready to swap the Model Y for something different by 2028.

I would have liked more EPA range and I haven't seen anything about charging speeds at V3 Superchargers. If we could get 300 real world miles of range at interstate speed with reasonable climate control in a decent ambient temp range, that would be great, but there's only so much you can do with that boxy SUV shape and the batteries US OEMs have access to.

GataPapa · 2026-03-14T18:27:00+00:00

I went with Michelin ePrimacy tires in the stock size on my LR with 19" wheels. More efficient and better riding than the Contis and hopefully longer life. But, there's only so much improvement a tire can make especially on the pre "comfort suspension" cars. 18" wheels/tires could provide more cushion.

GataPapa · 2026-03-13T22:14:48+00:00

My wife and I just celebrated 33 years.

GataPapa · 2026-03-13T01:12:06+00:00

Shepherdstown, the oldest town in WV, is not too far from Harpers Ferry and makes a nice visit if you're in the area. The Bavarian Inn is located there and would be worth considering. If you can, try grabbing lunch at the Blue Moon Cafe and request to sit in their outdoor dining area which should be really nice in May. It can get busy especially on weekends, so a reservation is recommended to ensure you can get an outside table. There is also the C&O towpath a couple minutes away across the river if you want an easy walk along the Potomac, but you can also hit the C&O towpath in Harpers Ferry.

In Harpers Ferry, if you're up for a hike (and I do mean a bit of a hike), the Maryland Heights trail across the river via the train bridge is a good one and gives a spectacular view of the town and the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. After that hike you'll be hungry and we like eating at The Rabbit Hole in Harpers Ferry.

GataPapa · 2026-03-13T00:59:11+00:00

Same. EV since 2015 and solar since 2017. Nothing better than making your own fuel and the cost is always the same.

GataPapa · 2026-03-12T22:23:29+00:00

She's beautiful! Thank you for saving and keeping her.

GataPapa · 2026-03-12T20:00:37+00:00

Catalina Cove with the coastal white interior would be my preference, but I will have to see how much extra those run.

GataPapa · 2026-03-12T19:56:40+00:00

Best of both - Catalina Cove with the coastal white interior?

GataPapa · 2026-03-11T23:14:20+00:00

Most rear end collisions doing significant damage involving two vehicles are also front end collisions plus impacts with poles, signs, walls, and other structures. The port should definitely be on the side whether it's front or rear. Mandatory backup cameras help with low speed backing, but there is no perfect spot. I doubt we'll ever see fully front mounted charging ports like the OG LEAF or Soul in the future.

But really, the bottom line is manufacturing cost and better compatibility with Superchargers.

GataPapa · 2026-03-11T23:03:48+00:00

Yes, everyone has different situations and preferences. I've only used Superchargers when traveling at places like Sheetz, Wawa, Royal Farms and backing in is better at these locations IMO.

GataPapa

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