This week, we're digging into Waymo's growing robotaxi fleet, a cheapish new Rivian model, and the boom in fast charging — plus all kinds of other news you need to know about clean machines right now.
The UK's EV drivers may soon have to pay a per-mile fee
The cash–strapped United Kingdom government is looking for a fresh income source — and electric vehicle drivers may be it. Finance officials are mulling a 3-pence charge (around $0.04) for each mile driven.
It's estimated this would cost British drivers around $325 extra per year, though analysts say driving an EV there would still save over $1,000 annually compared to a gasoline-powered car.
Rivian's 'affordable EV' gamble has drivers excited
Rivian is about to take a plunge in the affordable EV market with the R2, a midsize SUV that the American automaker recently confirmed will retain a starting price of around $45,000.
The model would bring the brand closer to what most Americans expect to pay for an EV, and it offers with some exciting abilities over traditional SUVs, such as "glamping"-minded add-on features like a custom inflatable mattress fitting over folded-down seats (under a dynamic glass roof that tints on demand) and a stowable induction camping stove designed to draw power from the vehicle itself.
An existing Rivian R1 will cost you $70,000 and up, so the drop to $45,000 is significant for a model that isn't way smaller. Rivian also confirmed that deliveries are expected in the first half of 2026.
Waymo is rolling out self-driving cabs in 3 more cities
While most people are still nervous about their own cars being fully self-driving, many Americans seem comfortable with driverless taxis.
Waymo has taken note, announcing it will bring autonomous cabs to Detroit, Las Vegas, and San Diego in 2026. That will bring the company to 12 cities with operational taxis.
Fast chargers are much more available than we think
We have more public chargers than ever, and yet Americans are still living with the fear of not being able to plug in when needed.
A new poll noted that despite 12,000 chargers being added within a mile of interstates and highways this year alone, around 40% of Americans still blame charging and range worries as major reasons they wouldn't consider buying an EV.
|
💡Solar quotes you can trust
Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers in your area. To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.
The Cool Down may receive a commission on signups made through links on this page, but we only promote partners we vet and believe in. For more cool tips like this one, check out our solutions marketplace here.
|
TCD Picks » Stasher Spotlight
💡Stasher's reusable food storage options make it easy and affordable to live life with less plastic
Ironically, the same poll shows that nearly 70% of interstate highways are within 10 miles of a fast charger. That's a rise of almost 10% in two years — and is more than double what it was in 2018-19.
|
Are you thinking about buying an electric vehicle?
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Yes — in the next 6 months 🙌 
💰Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Cool Picks
