Rivian Unveils First-of-Its-Kind EV Charging Outpost in Yosemite with Unique Amenities and Historical Charm

Rivian Unveils First-of-Its-Kind EV Charging Outpost in Yosemite with Unique Amenities and Historical Charm
Image credit: Rivian

Rivian has introduced a groundbreaking EV Charging Outpost in Yosemite National Park, offering more than just a place to charge your electric vehicle. This innovative site, transformed from an abandoned gas station, provides a unique and refreshing pit stop for travelers.

The Rivian Yosemite Charging Outpost features a lounge area where visitors can relax, read complimentary books from an onsite library, and browse through merchandise. Additional amenities include a “make your own” trail mix station, free coffee, and water bottle filling stations for both humans and pets. The site also includes five DC fast chargers and restrooms that are open 24/7.

Rivian Yosemite charging outpost visitors lounge 
Image credit: Rivian 

Visitors are greeted by native plants and games promoting sustainability upon arrival. According to Liz Guerrero, Rivian’s senior director of environments, the site aims to enhance the travel experience and add value to visitors' journeys.

Historically, the site has seen several transformations. Initially home to a blacksmith shop in 1870 during the California Gold Rush, it later became an auto repair shop and eventually a gas station as automobiles gained popularity. Rivian has now upgraded it for the modern era.

Denise Cherry, VP of Experience Design at Rivian, emphasized that each Charging Outpost will be located near beautiful and inspiring destinations, predicting that these sites will become ubiquitous in the future of travel and road infrastructure.

Rivian Yosemite charging outpost 
Image credit: Rivian

The Yosemite Charging Outpost, located at 18707 Main St, Groveland, CA 95321, is open to the public from 7 AM to 7 PM, with chargers and restrooms available 24/7. The site is open to all, not just Rivian owners.

Rivian plans to open more Charging Outposts in and around national parks and other high-traffic areas across the US. CEO RJ Scaringe highlighted that the company is focusing on uptime and reliability for their network, which they plan to eventually open to other automakers.

Image credit: Rivian 

Rivian has also converted several historic buildings into “Spaces,” including its Venice and South Coast Theater sites, further showcasing its commitment to preserving history while advancing modern technology.