Founded by RJ Scaringe in 2009, the startup has charged full steam ahead into the electric light automotive space. Now boasting a small pickup, two SUVs and a petite wagon, Rivian Automotive has stood tall and fought hard for the transition to electric as the means to propel road to the future.
“For the world to fully transition to electrified transportation, a range of vehicle types and form factors will be needed,” said Rivian Founder and CEO RJ Scaringe. “I am extremely excited about the innovations developed by the Also team that will underpin a range of highly compelling micromobility products that will help define new categories.”
Come for the Looks, Stay for the Goods
When the R1T arrived, Texas weather was doing its best impression of a trying to have three seasons in the span of a week. It was frosty cold then rainy with blustery winds and then wrapped up a nice, fake Spring experience. While I did more laundry than necessary, I had the pleasure of testing (and charging) under a variety of conditions.
From a nearly full charge, the R1T arrived with around 400 miles of range. The interior was comfortable and elevated with posh with blond wood accents and matte leather-like seating that looked just as good front the front as the rear. A large infotainment screen anchors the front of the vehicle, and the center console sits just a hair closer to the driver.
It took a second to get accustomed to the key card entry, but controls are smartly placed and fun badging and Easter eggs run throughout the interior. A large panoramic moon roof adds brightness to the space, and we found that the rear climate controls are a thoughtful touch to have in a truck. I fell hard for the drive of this one though. It’s literally get-in and go. The details are smartly placed; the built-in flashlight makes you smile, cupholders and charging ports are within easy reach, and the cool pass through becomes a helpful and oft-used third storage space.
We didn’t do any towing during our test, but it’s helpful to know that it can tow up to 7,700 to 11,000lbs, depending on the trim. The details are where the R1T shines though. The truck bed, while petite, comes with thoughtful details like Gear Guard cameras, a hidden spare tire hold, nice tie downs and a gooseneck hinge that makes the floor of the bed extend and adds to the versatility.
Stay Connected
App supported, the R1T works beautifully by itself, but even better when you make use of the app that is $14.99/month or $149/yr. The kids loved the Wi-Fi that let all of our devices stay connected, but its worthy to note that it is an extra expense. Free of charge are live navigation, voice assistant commands and over-the-air software updates. All combined, the Rivian R1T is a very compelling package. It doesn’t scream, “I’m electric.” It simply is and does the truck thing with a luxurious level of grace.
Facts at a Glance:
Original Starting Price: $69,900
Class: Electric Compact Truck, Seats 5
Range: 250 to 420 miles
Competitors: Ford 150-Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra-EV
Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles for the basic warranty and 8 years/120,000 for battery and drivetrain.
To Shop: Visit a studio space and book a demo drive, here
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