Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
Electric vehicle maker Rivian has introduced on Thursday the second generation of its R1 SUV and pick-up, featuring enhanced utility and design. Prices start at $75,900 for the R1S and $69,900 for the R1T.
The updated models, R1S and R1T, incorporate advanced technology, including a new Adaptive Drive Beam system and improved RGB LED light bars.
Inside, the vehicles boast refined materials, a revamped infotainment system, and new Tri- and Quad-motor configurations, delivering up to 1,025 horsepower.
The updates also enhance software-defined capabilities, offering features like over-the-air updates and autonomous driving readiness.
The well known design publication Wallpaper had an exclusive review on the refreshed models and wrote, “Big batteries and better energy management gives a projected 400+ mile range in the most abstemious drive mode on the most efficient model (real world experiences may vary substantially), with three different battery sizes on offer. At their core, these big Rivian trucks offer a huge amount of functionality for their target market, outdoorsy Californians who like to switch between highway and trail.
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Regarding cost optimisation for the new version, the chief executive RJ Scaringe has recently disclosed that the company was able to reduce the components in the battery pack from 41 to 16.
The refreshed R1S features a chiseled front light bar, reminiscent of the smaller R2 and R3 models, blacked-out badges, silver brake calipers, and new wheel designs.
A leaked certification document reveals that the biggest changes are beneath the surface. The R1S will now come standard with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack and a heat pump. These replace the outgoing nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries and resistive heater HVAC system.
The new LFP battery has a capacity of 92.5 kilowatt-hours, slightly smaller but lighter and more space-efficient than the NMC battery with the charging speed remaining the same and the peak rate reaching 210 kilowatts.
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In preparation for the launch of the refreshed models, Rivian has rolled out a series of incentives to boost sales and clear out inventory of its 2023 and 2024 R1 models.
These incentives include significant discounts, free upgrades, and lowered prices on battery options. This move comes as the company addresses logistical challenges and delivery delays, particularly for customers in Washington state.
Rivian’s Vice President of Software Development, Wassym Bensaid, noted in late April that “about 80 percent” of the new features will be available for the first version of R1 cars. These updates include improvements in computer, sensor, and high-voltage charging hardware.
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe attended on Wednesday the Bernstein’s Annual Conference in New York where he revealed that the R3, expected to be launched in early 2026, will be priced at “mid to high $30,000s”.
In the same interview, the chief executive acknowledged that from an investor’s perspective, the second quarter will appear less favorable due to the plant shutdown in April. The suspension lasted four weeks, significantly impacting production at the plant in Normal, Illinois.
Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
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