It has been over a year since Rivian began delivering its all-electric R1T pickup truck to customers at the end of 2021. Overall, the company has received positive feedback for the vehicle, with MotorTrend naming it “the most remarkable pickup truck” and several owners expressing satisfaction with their electric truck.
In a recent owner review, YouTuber TEDActuallyTalks shared his thoughts on the R1T after one year of ownership and approximately 13,500 miles driven, highlighting both the positives and negatives of the vehicle.
The YouTuber highlighted the benefits of the software updates that have been applied to the R1T over time, including the addition of Snow Mode and an improvement in range. These types of updates would be much more difficult to implement in a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle without visiting a dealership.
In response to critics who argue that start-up EV manufacturers do not produce vehicles that feel luxurious enough, the YouTuber argued that the driving experience in these newer, start-up EVs is unique and excitingThe YouTuber commented that he would choose the synthetic leather interior of the R1T over a traditional leather-appointed interior from a legacy manufacturer any day, due to the lower maintenance and upkeep required. He noted that the synthetic leather is flexible and does not require conditioning or UV protection, and it will not wrinkle like real leather can.
While the R1T has received mostly positive feedback, there are a few aspects of the vehicle that the YouTuber noted as less than ideal. One such issue is the lack of running boards, which makes it difficult to get in and out of the truck. However, this issue has been partially addressed through a software update that includes a Kneel Mode, which automatically lowers the suspension to make it easier to enter the vehicle. Additionally, the rear bench seat was described as being too upright for comfort on long road trips.
The YouTuber mentioned that he experienced only one issue with the R1T, which was with the powered tonneau cover that required servicing by Rivian. However, the issue was resolved and did not cause any further problems. Despite this, the YouTuber stated that he would “definitely do it again, 100%” and purchase the R1T at its current price point, expressing a high level of satisfaction with the vehicle and confidence in Rivian as a company.
