- Rivian has introduced the redesigned R1S and R1T.
- The models sport an updated design, new technology, and upgraded powertrains.
- Production is already underway and pricing starts at $69,900.
Rivian has introduced the second-generation R1T and R1S. While they’re a little too familiar, the automaker said they’ve been “completely reengineered” and benefit from hundreds of hardware improvements and performance upgrades.
Starting outside, it’s hard to tell the new models apart from their predecessors with a quick glance. However, there are new headlights and taillights as well as restyled wheels that help to reduce drag. The headlights are also notable as they’ll gain Adaptive Drive Beam technology later this year.
More: The 2026 Rivian R2 Looks Even Better Up Close
Additional changes are limited, but customers will find a new Storm Blue exterior color as well as blackout trim options.
Moving inside, there’s a new audio system, a color selectable ambient lighting system, and a Dynamic Glass Roof. The latter is electrochromic and can be “tinted electronically at the touch of a button.”
Other highlights include digital key technology and a redesigned user interface that is powered by the Unreal Engine. Rivian was coy on specifics, but said owners can expect a “unique and playful illustration style enhanced with real-time graphics.”
Customers will also find a new Connect+ subscription service, which supports streaming video through Google Cast, provides access to more than 3,000 apps, and “access to Apple Music’s catalog of over 100 million songs and 30,000 playlists, ad-free.”
The models offer “more power, performance, and range, thanks to a Rivian-designed and built drive unit offered in tri-Motor and quad-Motor configurations.” The company added the quad-motor R1T will produce 1,025 hp (764 kW / 1,039 PS) and 1,198 lb-ft (1,622 Nm) of torque in Launch Mode. This will enable the electric truck to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in less than 2.5 seconds.
The tri-motor system has two rear-motors and a combined output of 850 hp (634 kW / 862 PS). It will allow for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of as little as 2.9 seconds.
Rivian also confirmed plans for a dual-motor all-wheel drive system developing 665 hp (496 kW / 674 PS). It will enable the vehicles to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.4 seconds.
While Rivian’s press release was a half-baked disaster, the automaker confirmed new Large and Max battery packs. They have redesigned modules and more efficient packaging, which promises to make them easier to manufacture and service. These new batteries will also offer an estimated range of up to 420 miles (676 km).
Customers with more modest budgets can look forward to a new Standard pack, which has a lithium iron phosphate battery. It’s slated to deliver an EPA-estimated range of 270 miles (435 km).
Speaking of range, the company increased efficiency by utilizing a redesigned heat pump-based thermal system as well as an entirely new electrical architecture and compute platform. The latter has 10 ECUs less than its predecessor and this means a whopping 1.6 miles (2.6 km) of wiring could be removed from each vehicle.
The R1s have a new Rivian Autonomy Platform that promises a “significant leap forward in capability.” It’s 10 times more powerful and has “eight times the number of camera megapixels from previous vehicles.” This enables the system to “see far into the distance, even in poor weather and light conditions.”
The system has 11 cameras, five radars, and AI prediction technology. Rivian also revealed there will be two versions with the standard one including Blind Spot Monitoring and Highway Assist. The optional Rivian Autonomy Platform+ adds Lane Change on Command as well as Enhanced Highway Assist.
Last but not least, Rivian confirmed the models have an updated suspension and air springs. These promise to deliver a “smoother on-road ride.”
Production is already underway and deliveries are available immediately for some variants. Pricing starts at $69,900 for the R1T and $75,900 for the R1S.
