Beyond Tesla: Exploring the Massive EV Diversity at EV Fest 2024
Today I’m taking the Rivian R1T down to Irvine, California, for EV Fest. This isn’t just a Tesla meet anymore. We’re seeing everything from modified Cybertrucks and Rivians to electrified classics and high-performance Hyundais. Despite the rare Orange County heatwave, the turnout was incredible, and the variety of tech on display was next-level.
At a Glance
- The Venue: EV Fest in Irvine, CA – a massive gathering of the latest electric vehicle tech.
- The Variety: Massive showing from Rivian, Lucid, Ford, Hyundai, and even custom EV conversions.
- Standout Tech: Bidirectional charging demos from Lucid and off-grid camping setups with Polydrop trailers.
- Customization: Everything from “zombie apocalypse” wraps to convertible Tesla Model 3s.
The Truck Scene: Rivian vs. Cybertruck
I rolled in with my R1T, starting at about 80% state of charge [00:22]. Once we got situated in the truck section, it was a battle of the beasts. We had a solid Rivian lineup, an F-150 Lightning, and a massive row of Cybertrucks [04:09].
I caught up with Dennis and his newly wrapped blue Cybertruck—his third wrap already! It was interesting to hear his take on the market; he’s actually looking at selling his Model X to possibly jump into a 2025 Rivian R1 refresh [24:45]. The “Cyber-tent” setups and the rose gold factory-wrapped Cybertrucks [11:53] really showed how much the aftermarket (and Tesla itself) is leaning into customization.
Tech Highlights & Performance EVs
It’s not just about the trucks. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N was a personal favorite in that stunning blue [09:45]. Over at the Lucid booth, they were actually demoing bidirectional charging, using a Lucid Air to provide power to a first-gen Model S [08:20]. That’s the kind of tech that makes EVs more than just transportation; they’re mobile power stations.
I also spent some time with Harry and his “Model Y Studio.” He’s rocking T Sportline TS5 wheels with a square 18-inch setup for better ride comfort [07:27]. It’s a great reminder that sometimes downsizing your wheels for more sidewall is the move for daily driving.
Off-Grid Living and E-Rides
The lifestyle section was packed. I checked out the Polydrop P21 trailer, a super aerodynamic teardrop trailer equipped with 1300 watts of solar [27:00]. It’s the perfect companion for an EV road trip.
I even got to “commandeer” a bike from SoCal E-Rides. These things are built with bamboo and are surprisingly quick—I hit 24 mph on a full-throttle sprint [29:13].
The Trip Data
| Metric | Detail |
| Total Distance | 134 Miles |
| Efficiency | 2.43 mi/kWh |
| Energy Consumed | 55 kWh |
