Rivian, known for its all-electric R1S SUV and R1T pickup, has recently been granted a patent unveiling an inventive Camp Kitchen concept designed exclusively for its emission-free, four-door SUV.
The patent, initially brought to public attention by a Rivian Forums user, was filed on July 18 and approved within a month. It reveals a versatile countertop arrangement that includes a compact cutting board on the left, a central cooktop, and a collapsible bin. Positioned above are two storage compartments, all of which are mounted on rails within the vehicle’s trunk. This design aims to simplify camping and overlanding experiences. The patent explores various potential configurations and even suggests the possibility of incorporating a “water pump apparatus,” featuring at least one water reservoir and a retractable hose ā a practical addition for post-hike clean-ups.
The accompanying illustrations, showcased in the embedded gallery, unmistakably feature the Rivian R1S. However, as customary with patent applications, the realization of this concept is not guaranteed, despite its perceived suitability for adventurers seeking an electric SUV equipped with a purpose-built kitchen for their outdoor pursuits.
Rivian, headquartered in California, has previous experience with expandable kitchen solutions customized for its vehicles. Notably, in 2019, the company introduced a camp kitchen tailored for the R1T’s distinctive gear tunnel. Regrettably, this product was discontinued earlier this year, leaving reservation holders to either craft their own sliding countertop or seek assistance from specialists.
It’s worth noting that a relatively small percentage of reservation holders chose the $5,000 camp kitchen feature on the R1T configurator. A survey conducted in 2020 on the Rivian Forums indicated that only 7 percent of R1T orders included this add-on.
Nevertheless, the company’s recent earnings report highlights a significant shift in manufacturing focus towards the R1S SUV, marking the first instance where R1S production exceeded that of its pickup counterpart in the company’s history. With a larger number of R1S units anticipated on the roads, there exists a possibility that Rivian might seize the opportunity to bring this patented concept to life.
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