Rivian, the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has extended an exclusive invitation to a select group of quad-motor R1T owners and dual-motor reservation holders to test drive its highly anticipated performance dual-motor R1T model. The company has released an exciting new video showcasing the electric truck and capturing the enthusiastic reactions of the customers.
As part of its R1 series, Rivian now provides three different drive system configurations, catering to diverse consumer preferences. The quad-motor configuration, featured in numerous Rivian R1T models on the roads today, stands as the flagship option. This all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup delivers exceptional on and off-road performance, boasting a remarkable 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of instant torque. With impressive acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in as little as three seconds and the ability to conquer a 100% grade climb, Rivian’s quad-motor vehicles truly embody power and capability. Furthermore, the R1T variant offers an estimated EPA range of up to 328 miles, while the R1S electric SUV achieves up to 321 miles.
Last March, Rivian announced its plans to develop a more affordable dual-motor configuration and battery system. The dual-motor version utilizes Rivian’s in-house Enduro drive units, which entered production in February. To accommodate the production of these drive units, Rivian temporarily halted a portion of its EDV assembly line. In May, the company unveiled the first customer-ready dual-motor R1T truck equipped with the Enduro drive units. Deliveries of this variant commenced last month.
Designed with the everyday driver and adventurous individuals in mind, the dual-motor AWD configuration offers a balance between performance and practicality. Though it features lower overall horsepower (533) and torque (610), it still delivers an impressive range of between 270 and 400 miles.
Henry Huang, Rivian’s senior director of powertrain and thermal, emphasizes that the dual-motor configuration aims to cater to the needs of most customers, stating, “The dual-motor isn’t a product that does most things for the average customer but a product that does everything for most customers.”
After discontinuing the quad-motor max pack R1T in December, Rivian committed to providing a more potent “performance” dual-motor configuration. The performance version optimizes Rivian’s Enduro drive units, generating 428 lb-ft of torque and 350 horsepower (with a peak performance of 829 lb-ft of torque and 665 horsepower). This enhanced power enables the Rivian dual-motor performance variant to tow up to 11,000 pounds in the R1T and 7,700 pounds in the R1S, accomplishing a 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 3.5 seconds.
Huang expresses his enthusiasm for the performance dual-motor, highlighting its impressive acceleration and performance, stating, “The performance dual-motor is an absolutely incredible, high-performing drive unit, and still capable of mind-blowing acceleration. The only thing that you would probably see taillights on is a Quad-Motor R1.”
Initial reviews of the performance version have been overwhelmingly positive, with experts concurring that the differences compared to the quad-motor are minimal and likely imperceptible to the average driver. MotorTrend suggests, “If you’re not a Rivian engineer or currently crossing the Rubicon trail, you won’t be able to tell the difference.” Car and Driver similarly notes, “The R1T Dual-Motor Performance isn’t as extreme as the Quad-Motor, but it retains the same composed driving demeanor, well-appointed interior, and clever packaging, with nearly a Corvette Z06’s worth of power still bringing gut-punch acceleration.” Edmunds adds, “Even though the Quad-Motor version is a bit quicker and possesses amazing off-road capability, we don’t think you’re giving up much, if any, day-in, day-out practicality or performance with the Dual-Motor.” They also highlight the cost advantage of opting for the Dual-Motor, suggesting that the saved funds can be allocated to purchasing overlanding gear.
Rivian indicates that the implementation of the Enduro Drive units and LFP battery packs has resulted in a significant reduction in material costs for its EDVs, estimated at approximately 25%.
Following an outstanding second quarter performance, surpassing analyst predictions with 12,640 EV deliveries and 13,992 units produced, Rivian’s stock has experienced a resurgence. Analysts believe that Rivian has reached a pivotal turning point in executing its long-term strategy, contributing to the stock’s recent rally.
