Source – Rivian
Rivian, the innovative electric vehicle manufacturer, has unveiled its highly anticipated second-generation EV pickup and SUV, marking a significant leap forward in automotive technology. The newly redesigned Rivian R1S and R1T boast comprehensive hardware improvements, performance enhancements, and a completely revamped software experience, according to the company.
Cutting-edge design and Performance Enhancements
Rivian has fully re-engineered its R1S SUV and R1T pickup to offer unprecedented levels of quality and performance. The new models feature entirely new compute and autonomy platforms, introducing advanced motor configurations and a variety of design elements, trim, and tire choices. “We continue to evolve our flagship R1 vehicles, offering quality and performance without compromise. Our revamped Rivian R1S and R1T push the technical boundaries further, creating our most capable products to date,” stated RJ Scaringe, Rivian CEO and founder.
The second-generation R1 platform includes an in-house designed engine with tri-motor and quad-motor configurations, along with a dual-motor option. Rivian has also introduced new Large and Max battery packs with redesigned modules and more efficient packaging, offering up to an estimated 420 miles of range. For those looking to maximize value, a new lithium iron phosphate-based Standard pack provides up to an EPA-estimated 270 miles of range.
Advanced Autonomy and Connectivity Features
Rivian’s second-generation R1 vehicles come equipped with a new electrical architecture and compute platform, which enhances efficiency and reduces wiring by approximately 1.6 miles per vehicle. The vehicles also feature the newly developed Rivian Autonomy Platform, an advanced in-house autonomy system powered by 11 cameras, five radars, and AI prediction technology. This new system boasts ten times the computing power of Rivian’s previous autonomy system and includes features like blind spot monitoring with a high-resolution camera and highway assist.
The standard Rivian Autonomy Platform is included with all vehicles, while a premium version, Rivian Autonomy Platform+, offers additional capabilities such as lane change on demand. Enhanced highway assist will be available later in 2024. Rivian has also integrated modern connectivity features, allowing owners to use car keys in Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch, or select Google Pixel devices to unlock and start their vehicles. These digital keys can be shared conveniently with others.
Rivian R1S and R1T (second-gen) first drive: Fantastic yet familiar
Pricing, Availability, and Production
The redesigned second-generation Rivian R1S and R1T are now available for delivery, with production taking place in Normal, Illinois. The starting price for the R1S SUV is set at $75,900, while the R1T pickup begins at $69,900. Rivian’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and design is evident in these latest offerings, promising a new era of innovation and performance in the EV market.
With these significant advancements, Rivian continues to solidify its position as a leader in the electric vehicle industry, providing consumers with cutting-edge technology and exceptional driving experiences.
