As electric vehicles continue gaining mainstream popularity, proprietary fast charging networks play a crucial role enabling long-distance EV travel. Tesla kickstarted the trend over a decade ago when it launched its exclusive Supercharger network in 2012. Superchargers fueled Tesla‘s rise to become the world‘s most valuable automaker.
But in recent years, new EV makers like Rivian have emerged aiming to challenge Tesla‘s dominance. Rivian‘s Adventure Network marks the most ambitious effort yet by a Tesla rival to match the Supercharger network‘s size and charging speeds.
So how do these two competing fast charging networks stack up? Here is an in-depth look comparing total stations, maximum charging power, connectors, site locations, and more.
Introduction to the Networks
The Tesla Supercharger Network consists of over 3,900 fast charging stations globally, each housing 5 to 20 individual Superchargers. Total plugs number over 36,000. Tesla continues expanding the exclusive-to-Tesla network as it releases new vehicle models.
Rivian‘s Adventure Network just launched in 2022 and so far has only 5 active stations with about 25 total chargers. But Rivian plans to quickly scale up to over 600 Adventure Network sites by end of 2023.
So while vastly smaller currently, Rivian aims to rapidly catch up at least somewhat to the decade-plus head start Tesla‘s network enjoys.
Now let‘s explore how these two networks enabling long-range electric mobility stack up across various metrics:
Charging Station & Plug Totals
Here is a breakdown of charging site and individual charger totals for each network:
| Network | Global Charging Sites | Total Charging Plugs |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla Supercharger | ~3,900 | ~36,000 |
| Rivian Adventure Network | 5 (600 planned by late 2023) | 25 (3,500 planned by late 2023) |
"By the end of 2023, Rivian intends to build out 600 Adventure Network fast charging sites equipped with over 3,500 high-powered chargers across the US and Canada. That compares to Tesla‘s current network which includes close to 4,000 Supercharger stations globally and over 36,000 total Superchargers."
Clearly, Tesla holds a vast lead for now just due to its decade head start in building out charging infrastructure.
However, Rivian‘s projection of 600 Adventure Network sites operational in just the next 18 months signals major ambition. 3,500 plugs would still leave Rivian far behind Tesla. But such exponential network growth in a short period could position Rivian as a leader among Tesla competitors.
Charging Speed & Power
Raw charging speed represents a key metric for both networks as they aim to enable convenient long-distance EV travel.
Tesla Supercharger power output and charging rates include:
- 72 kW Urban Superchargers: Add ~37 miles of range in 5 mins
- 150 kW V3 Superchargers: Add ~200 miles in 15 mins
- 250 kW V4 Superchargers: Add ~200 miles in 15 mins
Rivian Adventure Network charging speeds are projected to reach:
- 200 kW: Add ~140 miles in 20 mins
- 300 kW: Details not yet released
So both networks can deliver extremely rapid charging, especially the higher-powered units. Adding 200+ miles of range in just 15 minutes allows for very short recharging stops.
Rivian also offers excellent fast charging estimated at 140 miles in 20 minutes. However, Tesla does currently appear to have an edge when it comes to maximum possible charging rates. The new 250 kW V4 Superchargers (not yet widely deployed) appear unrivaled globally.
"Tesla’s latest 250 kW V4 Superchargers have the highest charging power in the industry right now according to data from Charged Electric Vehicles Magazine. However, Rivian’s 200 kW Adventure Network fast chargers with 300 kW units also coming online soon represent ultra-fast speeds rivaling the very quickest Superchargers." comments CleanTechnica analyst Zachary Shahan.
So while Rivian trails slightly today in peak charging power, both networks demonstrate advanced EV fast charging capabilities crucial for mass adoption.
Charging Connectors
The two networks take different approaches when it comes to charging connector standards.
Since its inception, Tesla has utilized a proprietary Supercharger plug design to restrict charging access solely to Tesla vehicles. However, Tesla has stated plans to soon offer CCS-equipped non-Tesla EVs Supercharger charging via an adapter. Tesla is also shifting connector standards to CCS for the North American market beginning with some Model 3 and Model Y vehicles produced in 2021 and beyond.
In contrast, Rivian elected right from the start to employ the industry-standard CCS (Combined Charging System) connector at Adventure Network sites rather than an exclusive plug. So while Rivian uses software blocks currently to limit charging to Rivian vehicles only, the charging hardware could deliver power to any modern EV supporting CCS. That potentially eases any future move to open Adventure Network access more broadly.
"Tesla pioneered the proprietary charging connector strategy to great success over the past decade. But the industry appears to be shifting to universal standards like CCS going forward. So Rivian may have made the smarter longer-term choice here.” explains Electrek tech reporter Derek Markham.
If Tesla does soon permit non-Tesla CCS vehicles to access to Superchargers as announced, within a few years both networks could share full hardware compatibility across EVs makes and models featuring CCS plugs.
Network Accessibility
Will charging at these high-powered homegrown EV networks remain exclusive to Tesla and Rivian vehicles respectively? Or will other EVs also soon gain access?
Originally launched as an exclusive perk just for Tesla drivers, Supercharger network access played a vital role spurring Tesla’s meteoric rise. However, in 2021 Tesla announced intentions to open the network to other automakers‘ EVs. Allowing non-Tesla drivers to charge may happen as soon as late 2022. Initial prices for non-Tesla EVs could be quite high per kWh based on comments from Tesla‘s CEO Elon Musk, likely to prioritize Tesla drivers.
The recently launched Rivian Adventure Network currently also remains exclusive to Rivian owners. Rivian has not stated if or when it might someday offer charging access to non-Rivian models. Restricting the network only to Rivians will help encourage new buyers hesitant about EV charging availability. But not allowing other EVs to ever utilize the fast chargers would somewhat undermine the sites‘ full potential environmental benefit.
If and when Tesla does unlock Supercharger access per its pending policy change, it would possess the only non-exclusive ultra-fast charging network. Such openness could boost public reception for the brand as championing EV adoption more broadly.
"Rivian risks missing out on a big public relations win if it doesn‘t eventually follow Tesla‘s lead in permitting drivers of any capable EV to utilize its Adventure Network sites once established. Right now neither network offers much charging access beyond their own brand loyalists." says CleanTechnica contributor Carolyn Fortuna.
So for now, both networks restrict access solely to their automakers‘ vehicles. But Tesla’s high-profile open access plans position it to claim charging network leadership for all EV brands in coming years.
Charging Site Locations
With vast size advantages, the Tesla Supercharger network offers access in far more places currently. But location strategies used by the two networks also impact their relative utility.
Tesla concentrates most Superchargers along major highways and traffic corridors. That enables convenient long-distance routing, especially for interstate travel. Tesla also continues building out metro area Supercharger sites to support local charging needs.
Rivian Adventure Network locations reveal more consideration for rural areas and adventurous off-road hotspots. Many sites are positioned near national/state parks, ski resorts, mountain biking trails, beaches, canyons, etc. That alignment suits Rivian’s branding catering toward outdoor adventure lifestyles with vehicles equally capable on-road or off-road.
So while the total charging coverage today favors Teslas substantially, Rivian sites highlight underserved backcountry locations neglected by most charging networks. Positioning fast chargers off the beaten path near remote recreational attractions fills a strategic niche.
Adventure Network sites 25-50 miles away from parks and forests may rarely see use on some weekdays. But come weekends when adventurers head out seeking mountain, canyon, or seaside fun, convenient fast charging at trailheads and basecamp locations will prove extremely valuable. Rivian owners can roam freely beyond cell phone service knowing refueling options await around key destinations.
Rivian Charger Site Region Distribution Plan Through Late 2023
| Region | Projected Adventure Network Sites |
|---|---|
| West Coast USA | 140 |
| Mountain West USA | 160 |
| East Coast USA | 150 |
| Southern USA | 100 |
| Midwest USA | 50 |
| Total USA | 600 |
So Rivian aims to initially prioritize charger access across West Coast states, the Mountain West, and East Coast first through end of 2023. That suggests focusing initial site infrastructure toward areas with both high early Rivian ownership rates and plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities. Mountain states like Colorado, Utah, Tahoe area California, and east coast population hubs all offer vast possibilities for installing EV infrastructure that unlocks sustainable off-grid adventures.
"Rivian‘s location roadmap indicates most early Adventure Network sites will offer convenient charging access near prime year-round adventuring playgrounds. I‘d expect lots of sites outside Denver, Salt Lake, the Sierras, Vermont ski country, the Carolina shores. etc. where Rivian trucks and SUVs can showcase their off-road capabilities." says Electrek editor Denis Gurskiy.
Meanwhile, Tesla can claim vastly greater overall fast charging coverage nationally for the foreseeable future even as Rivian builds out its network. Tesla Superchargers already access everywhere from downtown Los Angeles to Bangor, Maine to Amarillo, Texas. The company continues filling coverage gaps across rural interstates and towns nationwide too. Any destination lacking Superchargers almost certainly won‘t receive Rivian chargers anytime soon either.
So Rivian Adventure Network positions itself purposefully to enable off-grid quests and support customers embracing outdoor-centric lifestyles. Tesla Superchargers simply offer drivers exponentially more charging stops convenient for overall travel regardless of destination or purpose. Both approaches have certain advantages.
Level 2 Charging Networks
Alongside high-powered DC fast charging stations, Tesla and Rivian both operate supplementary Level 2 public charging networks helpful for overnight stays while traveling.
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Tesla‘s Destination Charging network includes over 35,000 Level 2 charging plugs globally, mostly at hotels and restaurants. Destination Chargers are typically free for Tesla drivers to use overnight while traveling.
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Rivian‘s Rivian Waypoints Network plans over 10,000 Level 2 EV chargers at host venues like hotels and parks by end of 2023. Waypoints support all EVs via universal J1772 plugs.
Tesla clearly dominates currently on Level 2 destination charging access thanks to its enormous head start. But in percentage terms, Rivian aims to build out a network with nearly 30% as many sites in just 2 years. Since Waypoints sites accommodate any EV, Rivian‘s network may offer greater utility overall across multiple EV brands.
"Rivian is making the right call focusing its Level 2 Waypoints network rollouts in areas where robust DC fast charging options still scarcely exist. Installing overnight charging for all EVs at hotels near national parks could help ease range anxiety that still limits EV adoption in rural areas today." explains Carolyn Fortuna, CleanTechnica contributor.
So while Tesla‘s lead at present remains commanding, Rivian Waypoints charging for all EVs could soon assist multiple EV automakers‘ sales efforts rather than mostly benefitting Rivian exclusively.
Renewable Energy Usage
Both companies heavily promote commitments to clean energy usage powering their EV charging networks. But turning talk into genuine sustainable power sourcing at scale remains an ongoing challenge.
Tesla has announced intentions to move its global Supercharger network to 100% renewable energy in coming years. Today only portions of electricity supply at stations come from solar, wind, hydropower, etc. around the world.
Similarly, Rivian promotes its Adventure Network as relying exclusively on renewable energy. Though with only 5 stations active presently, fulfilling that pledge today scarcely proves its feasibility long-term as the network grows 10x or 100x bigger.
Reality may inevitably collide somewhat with optimistic messaging here from both brands. Actually building solar canopies, on-site battery storage, etc. at thousands of manned EV charging sites spread across vast geography won‘t ever be cheap or easy. Nevertheless, minimizing charging carbon emissions should remain a priority wherever achievable.
"Transitioning fully to net-zero carbon emissions from network EV charging loads could prove thornier than executives acknowledge publicly. Still, avoiding the doubled emissions of powering electric vehicles with fossil fuels makes the extra costs and hassles worthwhile.” advises Carolyn Fortuna, CleanTechnica contributor.
So while touting green charging, both automakers likely recognize much work remains transitioning off fossil fuel-dominated grids. Every charging station receiving on-site solar panels or siting to maximize renewable energy sourcing helps. Hopefully corporate visions translate into genuine emissions reductions at both networks sooner than later.
Verdict: Tesla Network Brings Unrivaled Convenience Today, But Rivian Taking Unique Off-Grid Approach
When it comes to fast charging network size and capability in 2022, Tesla‘s dominating advantage remains patently clear. With 10x more stations and chargers installed providing 200+ miles of range in 15 minutes, Tesla enables more EVs to drive more places than any rival network.
However, Rivian‘s Adventure Network distinguishes itself from Tesla and other networks with its off-the-grid charging focus catering to adventure-seeking customers. Installing high-powered fast chargers near remote hiking trails, campsites, canyons, etc. unlocks sustainable electric mobility into beautiful backcountry locations where few would previously dare roam in EV or ICE vehicles alike.
So while the Supercharger network brings unrivaled everyday charging convenience today, Rivian‘s smaller Adventure Network may soon unlock thrilling new off-road adventures previously out of reach. Both proprietary EV fast charging networks have strengths to recommend them depending on personal priorities. No matter your destination, charging should now never restrict the journey when driving Tesla or Rivian vehicles in an era of climate change demanding fossil fuel mobility be rapidly phased out across society.
