I know you‘re excited about Rivian‘s new electric R1S SUV. With seating for seven, legitimate off-road skills, forward-thinking technology, and up to 400 miles of driving range, it looks like an incredible adventure machine.
But Rivian offers the R1S in several motor configurations, which can get confusing. You mainly need to decide between the Standard Dual-Motor or newly available Performance Dual-Motor systems.
What‘s really the difference, you ask? And is the Performance upgrade worth it? Fantastic questions! I‘ve analyzed the specs, features, and performance of both to help explain. Buckle up and let‘s take a ride…
Quick Take: The Performance Dual-Motor Boosts Power Significantly
The R1S Performance Dual-Motor produces 700 horsepower and 700 ft-lbs torque, versus 600 hp and 600 ft-lbs for the standard Dual-Motor. More muscle cuts the 0-60 mph acceleration time down to just 3.5 seconds, from 4.5.
But it doesn’t change the mechanical layout or alter capabilities like max tow ratings. And you can pair the Performance motor with Rivian’s largest battery for up to 390 miles of driving distance.
So in short, the upgraded Performance Dual-Motor mainly brings a substantive extra punch of power and acceleration, while retaining everything that makes the R1S so special in the first place.
Intrigued to learn more about Rivian‘s motors? Let‘s get into the details…
Both All-Wheel Drive, With Clever Torque Shifting
Rivian uses separate electric motors to drive each axle of the R1S, rather than the single motor powers many EVs. So it‘s all-wheel drive, able to send precise torque fore and aft as needed automatically. This improves handling balance both on- and off-road.
Here’s a key point: the Performance Dual-Motor doesn’t alter this fundamental AWD system. You still get one motor powering each axle. And Rivian‘s sophisticated control logic actively shifts torque between them 100 times per second!
Thatmeans both Standard and Performance models provide tremendous grip and stability when accelerating orcornering. Very handy given the R1S‘s sporting aspirations.
So rest assured the Performance upgrade doesn‘t disrupt this optimal all-wheel drive layout focusedon confidence and control.
Hauls Almost 8,000 Pounds With Either Motor
The R1S specs claim it can tow up to 7,700 pounds—seriously impressive for an electric SUV. But does opting for the Performance Dual-Motor impact that?
Nope! Official tow ratings remain identical across all R1S Dual-Motor configurations.
And remember, with that torque-vectoring AWD constantly balancing power delivery, plus camera tech monitoring trailer sway, the R1S keeps heavy loads stable.
So even maxed out hauling your toys to the lake, both Standard and Performance models have the muscle…
Driving Range Extended in Performance Model
Now, I know driving distance per charge really matters for weekend trips way out into the wilds.
Well get this: when paired with Rivian‘s range-topping Max battery, the Performance Dual-Motor can deliver up to 390 miles before needing to plug in.
That‘s over 50 additional miles compared to the max 340 available from base Standard Dual-Motor editions.
Thanks to software unlocking extra output without additional mechanical stress, engineers likely approved the larger battery pairing. So if extended range gives you confidence to roam farther off grid, the Performance Dual-Motor definitely helps ease any range anxiety.
Let‘s Talk Acceleration!
Okay, you read the intro. The Performance Dual-Motor drops acceleration times thanks to its software-enhanced 700 horsepower.
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Officially, it dashes to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, versus 4.5 for the already-quick Standard model.
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More relevant off road is the 40-75 mph passing metric: the Performance version devours that interval over 2 seconds quicker too (3.2 sec vs 5.5).
That’s properly fast by any yardstick—especially for a full-size 7-passenger SUV! Triple digit speeds get tackled in a flash when you need to make urgent progress.
And again, the Performance edition doesn’t change hardware or mechanical attributes. It simply unlocks more muscle from the same capable electric platform.
It Costs Just $11k More
Now for the million dollar question: how much extra does the Performance Dual-Motor add to the R1S sticker?
Brace yourself…only $11,000 more than the $78k base Dual-Motor Standard model.
Yep, much less than expected consider the substantive power and performance gains. It costs thousands upon thousands less than Rivian’s range-topping quad-motor variant with similar output figures.
For buyers prioritizing value, I’d argue the Performance Dual-Motor offers the best blend of day-to-day livability and on-demand excitement of any R1S model for the money.
If your adventures demand authoritative electric torque mated to 7-passenger practicality, the Performance Dual-Motor unambiguously quickens the pulse.
Bottom Line: The Performance DM Sweetens R1S Capabilities
Rivian clearly aimed to disrupt the status quo in the EV world by delivering charm, utility and technology beyond the same old cookie-cutter options.
And offering the R1S SUV alongside its pickup truck sibling was a clever gambit indeed. It combines luxury amenities with legitimate adventure talent absent among battery-powered people haulers.
But most importantly, the Performance Dual-Motor upgrade spices up acceleration and range over the standard configuration without diluting Rivian’s fresh formula.
It retains off-road talents and interior flexibility all encased in a digitally-rich cocoon. Except hitting the accelerator issues a more stirring wakeup call for drowsy passengers!
So if you crave electrified performance currently exclusive to six-figure supercars, the value-packed R1S Performance Dual-Motor looks like a outrageously fun ticket to ride.
I don’t know about you, but I’m already daydreaming up weekend trips far off the map thanks to its blend of eco-luxury and capability. Here’s hoping you get a chance behind the wheel soon too!
All the best,
Phil
