Rivian has announced that they will be adding a new R1S variant to their lineup this fall. According to CEO RJ Scaringe, the new model will feature a dual-motor all-wheel drive system and a max battery pack, offering a range of 390 miles (628 km).
Despite retaining its seven-seat configuration, the new R1S variant is expected to outperform its predecessors, including the current quad-motor version with a large battery pack, which has an EPA range of up to 321 miles (517 km). Additionally, the new model will travel much further than the projected 260+ miles (418 km) of the R1S with the dual-motor all-wheel drive system and standard battery pack.
Excited to share a new Max Pack + Dual-Motor AWD configuration for the 7-seat R1S is coming this fall—projecting 390 miles of range! pic.twitter.com/KB3NxYHW7J
— RJ Scaringe (@RJScaringe) February 28, 2023
In terms of acceleration, the new R1S variant will be able to reach 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in as little as 3.5 seconds, making it half a second slower than the quad-motor variant, but one second faster than the standard dual-motor model.
See also: Rivian testing dual-motor versions of R1T pickup and R1S SUV in the wild
Rivian will offer two dual-motor all-wheel drive systems, with the base unit producing a combined output of 600 hp (447 kW / 608 PS) and allowing for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of 4.5 seconds. Those looking for more speed will need to opt for the Dual+ system, which produces approximately 700 hp (522 kW / 710 PS).
While Rivian has not yet revealed many specifics about the new R1S variant, the company has announced that existing pre-order holders will have the opportunity to order the new model instead. As we approach the launch date, we can expect to learn more about this exciting addition to Rivian’s lineup.
Delivering this fall: R1S Max Pack + Dual-Motor AWD. A projected 390 miles of range, 0-60 MPH as fast as 3.5 seconds and 3 rows of seating. Existing preorder holders – we’ll update you soon on how to update your order. Learn more about R1S: https://t.co/ZT9lUyWDOx pic.twitter.com/FoLCephQFr
— Rivian (@Rivian) February 28, 2023