It’s important to know the test is coming so that you don’t panic when it’s conducted. Earlier this year, many Floridians were startled awake when a test emergency alert was sent to their phones at 4:45 a.m. local time — though the test was only intended to be broadcast to televisions. 

An even scarier incident infamously occurred in 2018, when a false warning of an incoming ballistic missile was sent to the citizens of Hawaii. Nobody was warned of the test because it wasn’t actually a test — someone at the emergency operation center evidently pushed the wrong button (and was eventually fired for their mistake).

In addition to false alarms or poor timing, FEMA officials have warned that the software used for the Emergency Alerts System could potentially be vulnerable to hackers, who could send out false alarms, among other things. While there’s currently no evidence of this, FEMA recommends keeping the software updated on mobile phones, TVs, and other devices to better keep malicious hackers out of the system.

After all, the purpose of the EAS, WEA, and nationwide tests of both is to better prepare the public in the event of a real emergency, minimizing confusion and maximizing the dissemination of information. “The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level,” said FEMA in an official statement.

Make no mistake, for while it may be more frugal, the SL 43 isn’t lacking in fun. There is a reason, after all, that rear-wheel drive sports cars are still prized. Though the absence of the 4MATIC all-wheel drive standard on the SL 55 and 63 may steal a little sure-footedness (and all-season usefulness), there are decided upsides to be considered, too.

Weight is a big one: the SL 43 tips the scales at 3,825 pounds, making it 353 pounds less than the SL 63. That obviously pays dividends for heft in the corners and general poise, but the rear-wheel drive SL also distributes its weight better: 52% front and 48% rear versus 54% front and 46% rear on the SL 63. While the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system in the SL 55 and 63 can push all the power to the rear wheels if the situation demands it, you’re still carrying all the hardware.

In Comfort mode, the SL 43 cruises with firm aplomb. There’s still a pleasing gurgle from the engine — sounding, frankly, outsized to its actual capacity and cylinders — and the exhausts will bark gruffly if you lean into the gas. AMG doesn’t offer air suspension here, with the SL 43 getting AMG Sport Suspension as standard. Its steel springs are dialed in on the stiff side but not obstinately so, keeping the roadster level in corners but not getting uncomfortably bumpy on poor-quality surfaces.

Compared to the rest of the EV trucks on the market, the maximum range battery pack for Rivian’s R1 series has a substantial lead. For example, the extended battery pack on the F-150 Lightning offers up to 320 miles of range — almost 100 miles less than the R1T. The closest to the R1T’s range is the GMC Hummer EV pickup, at a max range of 329 miles. 

Competition among seven-seater SUVs is a bit tighter. The R1S’s popular competitor, the Tesla Model X, provides a range of up to 348 miles on its biggest battery.

The max range battery for the R1 lineup can be added to either the Dual-Motor AWD drive system or the pricier Performance variant. When paired with the highest-tier battery, both engines will provide the same maximum range. The standard Dual-Motor variant offers 533 horsepower, 610 pound-feet of torque, and a 0-60 time of 4.5 seconds for the R1T and the R1S. This model with the Max battery starts at $89,000 for the R1T, and $94,000 for the R1S.

The Performance drive system provides 665 horsepower, 829 pounds of torque, and a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds for the vehicles. You can snag this variant with the Max battery at $94,000 for the R1T, and the R1S for $99,000.