- Sarah and Matthew Buecher’s Rivian R1T won the Best Outdoor Rec, presented by Falken Tires, award at Electrify Showoff in San Francisco.
- They chose the Rivian R1T for its versatility as an electric pickup truck, supporting their passion for sustainable outdoor adventures.
- The custom Thunderbolt Adventure Supply Overland Kitchen is designed for quick and easy meal preparation during outdoor adventures.
Sarah and Matthew Buecher’s 2022 Rivian R1T showcases what can happen when innovative design meets rugged capability and a love for the outdoors. As the owners of Thunderbolt Adventure Supply, they’ve created an electric adventure vehicle that not only catches eyes but also wins hearts. Their efforts were recognized with the Best Outdoor Rec award, presented by Falken Tires, at Electrify Showoff and Electrify Outdoor Rec in San Francisco.
For Sarah and Matthew, the journey began with a desire to go electric while still maintaining the practicality and versatility of a pickup truck. “We’d wanted to go electric for years, but needed a pickup truck,” they shared. “The Rivian R1T was the first vehicle that met our needs.” The Rivian R1T is a lifestyle choice that aligns with their commitment to sustainability and innovation. With 835 horsepower (623 kW) and 908 lb-ft (1,231 Nm) of torque under the floor, it’s a platform that’s made for adventure.
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A Kitchen That Takes Outdoor Rec to the Next Level
The Buechers’ favorite feature is one they created themselves: the Thunderbolt Adventure Supply Overland Kitchen. “The kitchen is our favorite. Nothing like pulling out the kitchen in the morning and being able to have coffee and breakfast,” they explained. This custom kitchen is not only an important element of their vehicle but it also showcases their commitment to creating functional and long-lasting design.
With a retractable gear tunnel sled that turns into a fully equipped kitchen, complete with a stove, sink, and storage space, their Rivian is a mobile campsite. This setup makes it easier to enjoy outdoor recreational activities, whether it’s preparing a hearty meal after a long day of hiking or making coffee at sunrise with a view of the mountains.
Building an Outdoor Rec Community Through Adventure
While the kitchen is the highlight, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. The Rivian R1T is fitted with 22” sport wheels wrapped in Continental all-terrain tires, providing the perfect blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. The adjustable air suspension gives them up to 14.4 inches of ground clearance and 6.5 inches of vertical travel, making even the toughest trails manageable.
Their passion for the outdoors and overlanding has also led them to partner with brands like Roofnest, expanding their capabilities and reach. “We love finding other like-minded brands to work with,” Matthew said. Their build has not only been about creating the perfect vehicle for their needs but also about connecting with a community of enthusiasts who share their love for adventure and exploration.
This shared passion has brought them closer to others in the outdoor recreation community. As they’ve built out their Rivian and met others who are also customizing their EVs for adventure, they’ve found themselves welcomed into a network of people who are as excited about overlanding as they are.
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A Commitment to Thoughtful Design and Durability
Matthew’s background as an industrial designer is evident in every detail of their build. “Our build is inspired by our dedication to durable and thoughtful design,” he explained. His experience in design and manufacturing has influenced the practical yet aesthetically pleasing modifications they’ve made, from the custom kitchen to the durable bed sliders..
Their focus on high-quality, durable design fits right in with the growing trend in outdoor recreation. More people are looking for reliable gear that can handle tough conditions. Activities like camping and hiking are becoming more popular, with individuals and families turning to nature as a way to unwind and disconnect from the stresses of everyday life.
More people are getting into outdoor recreation, which means there’s a rising demand for vehicles and gear that are comfortable and sustainable. The Buechers’ Rivian R1T is a perfect example, combining power and practicality for anyone who loves outdoor adventures.
Outdoor Rec Reimagined
Their Rivian R1T is a glimpse of what’s possible with electric vehicles. It’s a sign of what’s ahead for outdoor rec. As electric trucks like the R1T become more popular, the possibilities for sustainable exploration grow, giving adventurers a way to enjoy and experience nature without the carbon footprint of traditional gas-powered vehicles.
They started small with the kitchen build, but their EV customization journey has grown into a full-scale transformation that truly reflects their values and lifestyle. They’ve shown that electric vehicles can handle the tough demands of overlanding and camping.
Sarah and Matthew’s story goes beyond just building an electric vehicle. They’re using the right tools and having the right mindset to create unforgettable experiences that connect us to the world. Their custom Rivian R1T represents their love for the outdoors and the belief that the best adventures are the ones we share with others.
If you’re someone who loves exploring off the beaten path, the Buechers’ Rivian R1T is a great example of how you can combine innovation and sustainability with your passion for the outdoors. Whether it’s a weekend camping trip or a longer overlanding adventure, their setup shows that you can enjoy the great outdoors without giving up on comfort or performance.
Sarah and Matthew combined their design skills and passion for adventure to create a new kind of outdoor rec vehicle, one that offers both excitement and unforgettable experiences. They’ve shown us what’s possible in the world of outdoor exploration.
For more information on Electrify Showoff Driven by Yokohama Tire, visit www.electrifyexpo.com/showoff and follow on social media – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube.
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2024 Electrify Expo Schedule
| Date | Location |
| March 16-17 | Orlando, FL (new location for 2024) |
| May 4-5 | Phoenix, AZ (new location for 2024) |
| May 31-June 2 | Long Beach, CA |
| July 13-14 | Denver, CO (new location for 2024) |
| August 24-25 | San Francisco, CA |
| September 14-15 | Seattle, WA |
| October 12-13 | Long Island, NY |
| November 8-10 | Austin, TX |
OWNER/VEHICLE DETAILS
Owner: Sarah & Matthew Buecher
Location: San Francisco, CA USA
Vehicle: 2022 Rivian R1T Launch Edition
Facebook: Thunderbolt Adventure Supply
Instagram: thunderboltadventuresupply
YouTube: @ThunderboltAdventureSupply
ELECTRIFY SHOWOFF AWARDS
| Show | Category |
| Electrify Showoff San Francisco 2024 | Best Outdoor Rec presented by Falken Tires |
VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS
| Category | Description |
| Wheels & Tires | 22” Sport wheels Continental All-Terrain tires |
| Chassis & Suspension | Stock adjustable air suspension with 14.4 inches max clearance and 6.5 inches of vertical travel |
| Exterior | Red Canyon paint, Thunderbolt Adventure Supply Overland Kitchen |
| Audio & Multimedia | Meridian sound system |
2022 Rivian R1T Launch Edition Photo Gallery
IMAGES: ELECTRIFY EXPO
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