A fun tool to compare Traveler BEV vs. EREV routing

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We currently have deposits down for both the Traveler BEV and EREV (placed both before realizing it wasn't necessary). As we try to decide which configuration actually fits our use cases better, I put together a Gemini Gem to analyze specific routes.

It breaks down the logistical differences between the two powertrains for a given trip. If you are on the fence, looking at the practical implications of a long haul might clarify things. Take it for what it's worth, but it can help think things through.

I know AI tools can be polarizing, but I’d suggest looking at the example output before writing it off. It's been fun looking at the various scenarios, even knowing these things aren't 100% accurate.
Note: The example below was generated using Gemini Pro, but I believe Gems are now available to free users as well. Not sure how that might change the output.


Example Output (anyone can see with or without a Google Account, just copied and pasted to Google Docs for easy viewing):
Route: Denver, CO > Black Bear Pass > Tuweap > Hurricane UT (Scout Connectors, 35" tires, July, 15% reserve)

The Gem (Link - try for yourself - you at least need to be signed into a Google account to try - Pro accounts work for sure):

How to use it:
Once you open the Gem, you don't need a complex prompt. Just type your start and end points and stops along the way. It may ask you a few routing, time of year, and rig (e.g. 35" tires) questions.

Examples prompts from the Gem link above:
  • Denver, CO to Moab, UT
  • San Francisco to Cabo San Lucas
  • Portland, OR > John Day > Hells Canyon with Scout Connectors, 33" tires, and 15% minimum reserve in November
It will generate a comparison report looking at charging stops, total time, and refueling logistics for both platforms.

I'll be curious what you all think. Cheers
Would this work for a regular hybrid vs BEV comparison too?

I'm contemplating a Route 66 road trip this summer and a big question will be whether to take my F150 Lightning or my wife's Kia Carnival hybrid.
 
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Would this work for a regular hybrid vs BEV comparison too?

I'm contemplating a Route 66 road trip this summer and a big question will be whether to take my F150 Lightning or my wife's Kia Carnival hybrid.
Rivian just had a couple of guys leave the Illinois factory in a pre-production R2 traveling Route 66. They were making short social media posts but unfortunately I haven’t seen a comprehensive write up.
 
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If you do go you have to start a thread and take us along with you!
I had started this one recently:


If we do the trip, we'll be driving through your neck of the woods. Might be cool to meet up at some point. Would love to get a group of forum members together if any others live in the area too.
 
Rivian just had a couple of guys leave the Illinois factory in a pre-production R2 traveling Route 66. They were making short social media posts but unfortunately I haven’t seen a comprehensive write up.
The embargo ends Tuesday it looks like. I would imagine we would see a lot of content then.
 
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Would this work for a regular hybrid vs BEV comparison too?

I'm contemplating a Route 66 road trip this summer and a big question will be whether to take my F150 Lightning or my wife's Kia Carnival hybrid.
I haven’t focused it that way and don’t have reference data for various hybrids. If you ran it as is, what it’s going to be most useful for is where you can charge (and gas up to some extent).What you could do is use it with a prompt like this (it won’t be precise at all – and let’s face it even with Scout’s it’s not because of limited data, but will give you a rough idea).

Prompt would be something like this - give it a try. It’ll ask you some follow-on questions (change each vehicles range a your trip start/stop/waypoints to match what you’re trying to do). But do something like:

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Since the Scout’s aren’t out yet, I want you to do the same trip planning, but as a proxy for Scout Traveler BEV use a Ford F-150 Lightning (mine has a 250 mile range) and for the Scout Traveler EREV replace it with the Kia Carnival (~ 600 mile range).

Route 66 from St. Louis to Los Angeles. Scenic route through Santa Fe, and limited Highway 40, but obviously only within the capability of both the Lightning and Kia Carnival.
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