Suppose you like exploring nature and also like electric vehicles. In that case, it is no longer one or the other because Rivian has started delivering its rugged electric pickup truck, the R1T, to people that made pre-orders. As claimed by Rivian, this is an EV that you can rely on for your off-road adventures.
This article will look at the R1T, the first production electric pickup truck, in detail.
Exterior
Rivian offers the R1T truck in several eye-catching colors, including Red Canyon, Rivian Blue, and Forest Green. However, you can’t fail to notice the headlights, which are like little cylinders of light. The truck is 215.6 inches long, putting it in between mid-size and full-size trucks.
Battery, Range and Charging Time
The R1T base version on sale has a 135 kWh battery pack that delivers 300 miles per charge. Rivian is promising a model with a bigger 180 kWh battery pack that yields 400 miles on a single charge.
Electric Motor
The R1T is an all-wheel-drive, with an electric motor on each wheel. Altogether, the motors produce up to 800 hp, enough to push the truck from 0 to 60 mph in 3 seconds. The motor placement allows the truck to do what Rivian calls a Tank Turn which will enable it to spin about a center.
Adjustable air suspension lets the driver adjust the height from eight to 14 inches to tackle rougher terrains. This feature is standard.
As a vehicle you will take on adventures, the R1T can tow more than 11,000 pounds, while it has a payload capacity of 1760 pounds. However, owners will quickly realize towing affects range.
Interior, Infotainment and Storage
The Rivian is every bit a modern vehicle inside, with two large screens serving as the dashboard and center console. Rivian has used physical buttons sparingly, meaning you will access most controls through touch on the center console.
The cabin is roomy, with comfortable seating for five passengers. Flourishes include a detachable Bluetooth speaker, a nook for storing a flashlight that charges automatically. Rivian offers several color schemes to choose from for the interior.
There is space under the hood in front, with more in the trunk bed. However, there is another storage space behind the cabin like a tunnel. However, if you pay for the upgrade, a mini kitchen powered by the battery can slide out from one side of the tunnel. You can use the air compressor to inflate your flat tires.
Rivian has not included Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The Competition
The R1T is in an enviable position for now as its competitors are still being made. But it will eventually be competing with the Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, GMC Hummer EV, etc.
Cost
The R1T is clearly a luxury truck, starting at $67,500.