The R1T is not only an electric pickup truck but also the world's first electric adventure vehicle with more power and agility on or off the road.
The Rivian R1T EV pickup lends a new meaning to off-road adventure. Built as the world’s first electric adventure vehicle, Rivian fitted the R1T with impressive features that should rival those currently offered by electric pickup trucks like GMC’s Hummer EV. As more automakers experiment with the possibilities of electric vehicles, more battery-powered models are expected. Aside from being a terrific way to promote environmental sustainability, EVs differ from gasoline-powered vehicles by offering a unique driving experience.
California-based Rivian delivered the first unit of this pickup truck in September 2021 after production commenced in 2020. Interestingly, the R1T was first unveiled in May 2018 with the “A1T'' nameplate, but Rivian then opted to release production versions wearing the R1T badge. As part of efforts to cement its presence in the EV market, Rivian revealed that it would offer its electric chassis for other automakers to use as a design base in developing future vehicles. Rivian also declared its intentions to build a network of public charging stations slated for completion in 2023. With Tesla already offering a network of Superchargers, Rivian could threaten Tesla’s position as a top EV maker.
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The 2022 model of the R1T is offered as an all-electric, all-wheel-drive truck powered by a 135 kWh Li-ion battery pack. While Samsung produces the Li-ion cells, Rivian assembles the battery pack in its Illinois plant. There's a flashlight placed on the driver-side door that holds a Li-ion battery cell similar to the cells that make up the truck’s battery. Although the R1T is built with an all-wheel drivetrain like Tesla's Model X, the arrangement is quite different. The R1T is powered by four electric motors, with each motor supplying electricity to each wheel. Rivian’s Quad-Motor AWD is capable of sending power while adjusting torque for all the wheels to guarantee wheel control. The Quad-Motor AWD comprises two Dual-Motor drive units placed at the front and rear axles, respectively. While the motors at the front axle make 415 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, the rear axle offers more punch with 420 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. Therefore, the R1T has a combined power output of 835 hp and 908 lb-ft of torque. With these incredible power specs, the R1T can hit 60 mph from zero within 3 seconds while maintaining great efficiency and adjustability for all conditions.
Rivian offers the R1T in three trim levels: Explore ($67,500), Adventure ($73,000), and Launch Edition ($85,000). Only the premium trim, Launch Edition, comes with the amazing Quad-Motor AWD. Instead, the remaining trims are fitted with a Dual-Motor AWD system. While the Explore and Adventure trims have a standard battery pack, the Launch Edition trim includes a large battery pack, potentially improving the driving range. Speaking of which, the R1T truck's driving range varies between an estimated 260-400+ miles per charge, depending on the trim purchased.
All R1T EV trims come with a standard 18-inch portable charger meant for a 240V or 120V outlet. The charger provides the driver with 16 miles of charge per hour (240V). For infotainment, the Rivian Elevation audio by Meridian is a standard feature for the Launch Edition and Adventure trims while the base, Explore, trim features a regular audio system. The Launch Edition can be upgraded with either 20-inch All-Terrain or 22-inch Sport wheels. An air compressor is standard for all Rivian R1T trims.
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Michael Akuchie is a freelance content writer with 2 year's worth of experience. His writings cover the Customer Experience, HR Tech, Digital Transformation, and Automobile industries. He's also an Anime enthusiast, with Naruto and AOT being his two all-time best Anime shows.