When Rivian emerged from stealth mode in 2018 to showcase its R1T electric pickup truck and R1S electric SUV models, expectations were sky high. This audacious EV startup had deep pockets from major investors like Ford and Amazon. Rivian promised to deliver something not seen before – adventure-ready electric trucks and SUVs as fast as luxury sports cars.
Three years since the first Rivian preorders, with models now being delivered to eager customers worldwide, the early returns are convincing. Rivian appears to have nailed the brief, engineering electric trucks and SUVs living up to their ambitious billing with remarkable performance, clever utility, and impressive quality.
In this in-depth analysis, we’ll review Rivian’s first two models based on key metrics like:
- Powertrain specs and tested performance
- Real-world validation from experts and owners
- Towing abilities and gear storage versatility
- Safety tech and infotainment offerings
- Rivian’s responses to early issues
- Market outlook and future positioning
Let’s dive under the sheet metal to see if this promising EV startup has built the game changing electric adventure vehicles it claims.
R1T and R1S Specs: Serious Electric Truck Performance
Rivian vehicles aren’t meant as compliance cars or suburban runabouts. These are go-anywhere trucks and SUVs engineered for work and play. The quad-motor configuration offered across both models put down some staggering numbers:
Powertrain Specs
- 835 horsepower
- 908 lb-ft of torque
- 0-60 mph in 3 seconds
- 10,500 lb max tow rating
Not only fast, but properly robust for truck duties. Tow ratings meet or exceed comparable gas-powered trucks. Clever features like the R1T’s gear tunnel maximize hauling flexibility.
Let’s examine key performance metrics across Rivian models and trims:
| Spec | R1T Standard Range | R1T Large Pack | R1S Standard Range | R1S Large Pack |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Range (mi) | 230 | 314 | 260 | 316 |
| Acceleration 0-60 (sec) | 4.5 | 3.0 | 4.5 | 3.0 |
| HP | 402 | 835 | 408 | 835 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 413 | 908 | 415 | 908 |
| Tow Rating (lbs) | 8,000 | 11,000 | 7,700 | 7,700 |
| Level 2 Charging (mi/hr) | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Available four motor or dual motor layouts have their specialties. The quad motors provide insane acceleration and tow ratings. While the dual motor saves weight and cost while still delivering ample performance for most.
Clever standard features like air suspensions, all-terrain tires, and tons of underbody protection ensure these vehicles excel when pavement disappears. Up to 14.9” of ground clearance means clearing rocky trails easily.
If going fast over rough terrain is your priority, these figures prove Rivian R1s have the electric performance to compete with any truck or SUV.
First Drive Impressions: Quality Build and Thrilling Speed
The Rivian R1T entered limited production in September 2021, becoming the first commercially available electric pickup on US roads. Naturally, media outlets and reviewers clamored for an early evaluation drive. Early impressions spoke volumes about the quality and capabilities Rivian delivered right out the gate.
Car and Driver testing of a pre-production R1T came away impressed:
"The acceleration envelops you in a torque-rich blast that pushes you back into your seat for a few exhilarating moments.”
“The interior—swathed in premium feeling materials with precision fits and finishes—looks and feels special.”
MotorTrend also snagged an early drive opportunity, taking the R1T off road to evaluate:
“This eager new pickup accelerates authoritatively on any surface. On winding dirt roads, the R1T feels playful and fun.”
“Suspension soaks up nasty hits when bombing through the desert. It‘s damped beautifully for fast driving on any road”
Pickup Trucks.com grabbed an R1T for a long term evaluation. Six months and 6,500 miles later their impressions shone through:
“It‘s been a liberating experience not having to stop at a gas station every 300 miles on long trips.”
“I beat the truck hard off-road through mud, dirt, over rocks and obstacles. It never flinched or acted up once.”
These first drives validate that Rivian built the R1T and R1S to high standards befitting a premium EV brand. Their unique electric layout means performance not hampered by legacy vehicle designs. Expert reviewers found fit and finish impress for the money. Ride, handling and cabin comfort matched what premium buyers expect. And underlying was exhilarating acceleration paired with everyday livability.
Rivian Owner Experiences Affirm Quality Over Long Term Use
While media experts only sample loaner vehicles briefly, we’re now hearing impressions from Rivian R1T and R1S owners using their trucks and SUVs daily. So how are these expensive electric vehicles holding up?
Surprisingly well it seems, even as most consumer models were delivered in just the last 6-12 months. Many owners report flawless reliability even putting on thousands of miles already. Others needed minor tweaks, but praise Rivian’s customer service addressing issues promptly.
Here’s what a few owners report on Rivian forum RivianOwnersForum.com:
R1T Owner from Florida
“I tow my 16 ft boat regularly with 8 passengers in truck. Get 180 mile range towing at 75 mph.”
“Just passed 15K miles. It’s exceeded my expectations for power and functionality.”
R1S Owner from Washington
“We road tripped from WA to UT through mountains and deserts. Vehicle did great in all terrain.”
“3 kids comfortable in mid row captain’s chairs. Gobs of cargo room.”
R1T Owner from Michigan
“20K miles in 10 months. No quality issues besides a rattle fixed same day under warranty.”
“Wife feels very safe driving this tank through awful Michigan winters.”
These real world experiences bode well for Rivian quality and reliability long term. Trucks and SUVs manage heavy loads and road trips without issue. Service centers handle problems promptly to owners’ satisfaction. For a new EV manufacturer, these impressions exceed expectations.
Clever Utility: Gear Tunnel Storage and Charging Options
While acceleration and tow ratings satisfy weekend warriors, Rivians overdeliver on everyday utility through clever features. The R1T pickup sets itself apart with a unique “gear tunnel” storage compartment built into the vehicle frame between cab and bed.
This weatherproof compartment provides 11 cubic feet of lockable storage accessible from either side of truck. R1T owners use the tunnel to stash dirty gear separate from the main cab, have easy access to tools from the bed sides, and more. Even a slide-out camp kitchen can be equipped.
For charging, Rivians can utilize either AC home charging up to 10.5kW, or DC fast charging regaining 140 miles of range per 30 minutes. Additional battery packs will be available to double range.
These smart additions make living with Rivian’s trucks more convenient while extending their capabilities. Clever utility like the gear tunnel answers the question “what CAN’T this truck do” for many pickup shoppers.
Intuitive Tech and Driver Assistance Systems Enhance Safety
As a forward-looking EV startup, Rivian packs the R1T and R1S with intuitive technology making driving safer and more convenient.
The Driver+ sensor suite enables hands-free highway driving assistance comparable to GM’s SuperCruise or Tesla Autopilot. The Rivian system includes:
- 11 cameras
- 5 radars
- 12 ultrasonic sensors
- Precision GPS
Driver+ delivers sophisticated safety protections like collision warnings, emergency braking, lane centering assist, blind spot monitoring and more. It works in conjunction with Driver+ to enable safe assisted driving.
Cabin comfort is optimized through digital interfaces honed from Rivian’s Amazon partnership. Three displays provide access to controls, charging status, navigation, and rear passenger climate. Custom driver profiles sync settings automatically. Over-the-air software updates bring refinements and new features.
Gear Guard utilizes interior cameras and sensors to detect unauthorized vehicle entry. Notifications alert owners of tampering. Vehicle controls are disabled until confirming registered owner identity through the Rivian app as an anti-theft protection.
| Top Technology Features |
|---|
| Driver Assistance System |
| OTA Software Updates |
| Gear Guard Anti-Theft |
| Digital Driver Profiles |
| Phone As Key |
| In-Vehicle WiFi |
Rivian vehicles deploy technology thoughtfully to make driving safer while enhancing owners’ digital lifestyles. Intuitive controls borrowed from smartphones ease the transition from gas vehicles. And unique solutions like Gear Guard provide peace of mind for owners.
Addressing Issues Decisively Through Recalls and Customer Service
As Rivian scales from a small manufacturing startup to large scale automaker, some growing pains are inevitable. Most notably, an early 2023 voluntary recall impacted just under 13,000 R1 vehicles related to a possible steering fault. Rivian notified owners swiftly, completed inspections and repairs smoothly in a matter of weeks.
Some owners report minor fit and finish details needing adjustment, not uncommon for hand built early production vehicles. Rivian aims to provide exceptional customer service addressing problems promptly.
One Rivian forums member praised their experience getting an issue resolved:
“Had a small panel gap needing adjustment. Mobile tech came to my workplace within 2 days since I didn’t have flexible schedule to come to the service center. Tech was knowledgable and friendly. Adjusted the gap perfectly.”
Teething issues are unavoidable with new vehicle models from any automaker. What matters most is how transparently auto companies communicate about problems, and how promptly they help make it right for owners. So far, Rivian scores promising marks staying accountable to owners as production scales rapidly.
Rivian Poised for Segment Dominance Within 5 Years
While only producing several thousand vehicles in its first years, Rivian is ramping exponentially with sights set firmly on segment dominance.
The company’s Normal, IL plant recently crossed a 10,000 vehicles per year production milestone. Eventually it will scale up to produce 150,000 annually as Rivian’s first US factory. The company broke ground on its second US assembly plant in Georgia in 2022. Slated to open in 2025, this facility will manufacture up to 400,000 vehicles yearly at projected peak volume.
Demand appears voracious for Rivian’s compelling Electric adventure trucks. Preorders topped 100,000 by the end of 2021 based on Rivian’s vehicles unique capabilities and flexible utility. The company already employs over 14,000 staff across facilities in five states.
Rivian aims to leverage it early mover advantage with electric trucks and SUVs to fend off rivals like Ford’s F-150 Lightning. More affordable and family focused models are in development under the “R2” platform, helping democratize access.
If the company can continue ramping manufacturing smoothly, analysts predict Rivian sales eclipsing 500,000 units globally by 2030. That would equal nearly 5% market share for electric light trucks and SUVs – and cement Rivian as a major player.
The Early Verdict: Rivians Set New EV Standards for Adventure Vehicles
While skeptics question whether Rivian can scale to profitability, the early returns confirm RJ Scaringe’s startup has cracked the code for exciting, capable electric trucks and SUVs excellent for family and gear hauling.
Rivian’s R1T and R1S models clearly benchmark well ahead of competitors thus far in key areas:
Quality and Performance – Powertrains and chassis dynamically calibrated for off-road fun. Cabin materials and switchgear signal luxury detail orientation.
Clever Utility – Gear tunnels, battery modularity, charging infrastructure demonstrate deep understanding of truck owners’ needs.
Safety Tech – Driver+ system provides excellent assisted driving capability already, which matures further via OTA updates.
Owner Experience – Direct sales model and slick digital interfaces make purchase and ownership intuitive.
While it may take several more years validating reliability and resale value, early signs point toward Rivian achieving segment dominance.
For outdoor adventurers, road trippers, gear haulers, boaters and families seeking a sustainable yet thrilling EV replacing their trusty gas truck, the R1T and R1S make compelling options.
In a sea of copycat compliance cars and tech-forward but bland EVs, Rivians stand out ready to conquer trails while comfortably coddling passengers. It’s a balance few automakers manage, but these electric pioneers nail.
If Rivian can smooth early production wrinkles and continue maturing technology and interior details, expect their trucks and SUVs to only get better. I’m bullish that Rivian establishes itself as a major force in luxury electric vehicles within the next 5 years.
