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Updated on May 5, 2025
Contrary to what most would assume, the most prominent players in the EV market aren't the big three American automakers or tech-savvy foreign manufacturers. Leading the charge in electric vehicle innovation are smaller, newer companies—names like Tesla, Lucid, and SoCal-based Rivian—providing fresh insights and ideas to the century-old automotive industry.
In recent years, Rivian has taken up the mantle that other automotive manufacturers have left to rot. Where most EV manufacturers stick to compact cars and crossovers, Rivian took a greater risk by designing fully electric and semi-autonomous full-size trucks and SUVs directed at the adventurous American market.
Fortunately, this risk paid off. As the automaker behind one of the leading electric trucks and SUVs in the United States, Rivian offers an impressive product that's taken the EV industry by storm.
If you've ever considered upgrading your conventional fossil-fuel-burning SUV to an EV, read on for our extensive overview of the impressive Rivian R1S.
Rivian was founded in 2009 by MIT graduate Robert "RJ" Scaringe. Scaringe had a unique goal—revolutionizing the century-old automotive industry.
Though the company initially set out to produce autonomous vehicles, including an autonomous sports car, the focus quickly shifted toward semi-autonomous full-size vehicles. After receiving numerous sizable investments and growing considerably in 2015, Rivian announced its first concepts.
The A1T truck and A1C SUV, soon to be renamed the R1T and R1S, debuted at the 2018 LA Auto Show. Marketed as an adventurer-focused, semi-autonomous vehicle, Rivian quickly garnered the attention of consumers and truck fanatics alike.
Though several production woes slowed delivery, including material shortages caused by the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, Rivian began delivering the R1T to customers in October 2021. The R1S followed shortly thereafter, as customers started taking delivery in August 2022.
The R1S had the luxury of following its truck counterpart, the R1T. With initial reviews praising the pickup, those who adored its styling and performance but favored an SUV form factor over a truck rejoiced to see the R1S hit the streets just months later.
The R1S features many of the same mechanics and styling as the R1T, is built on the same skateboard chassis, and features much of the same sheet metal. Similar to a Chevy Silverado and a Chevy Suburban, both platforms share several design features and specs.
Like the R1T, the R1S is grounded yet modern. It's not gimmicky, like other full-size EVs—instead, it offers looks that immediately capture the attention of onlookers in a good way.
Unlike several electric automakers that strive for bold, borderline unattractive designs in the vein of progress, Rivian employs a more traditional approach, appealing to a broader consumer base. The company has a finger on the pulse of the entire automotive market, not just the wealthy elites and tech fans.
The R1S offers mind-blowing specifications, making it one of the most exciting and impressive EVs. Check out some basic power and range figures below.
Model | R1S Dual Standard | R1S Dual | R1S Tri | R1S Quad |
HP | 533 | 665 | 850 | 1,025 |
0–60 | 4.5 | 3.4 | 2.9 | 2.5 |
Towing Capacity | Up to 7,700 lbs. | |||
Range | 270 Mi. | 329–420 Mi. | 371–405 Mi. | TBD |
In 2025, Rivian announced the release of its Gen 2 platforms. All R1S vehicles in the model year 2024 or older are considered Gen 1, while 2025 and on platforms are considered Gen 2.
The second generation Rivian R1S offers several innovative new features, redesigns, and improvements over the previous generations, including:
Updated batteries with reengineered lithium-iron-phosphate technology.
Release of Tri-Motor and Quad-Motor models with 850 and 1,025 horsepower, respectively.
Redesigned premium interiors offering new interior lighting and revamped in-cabin storage compartments.
New aesthetic upgrades, including new exterior paint colors, blackout trim packages, and new wheel and tire options.
Innovative electrically-tinting panoramic roof.
Upgraded tech, including infotainment systems, digital keys, and more.
Rather than offering a wide range of trim levels and options, Rivian trim levels typically only focus on minor interior upgrades. These trim levels are determined by the model. For instance, Adventure trims are available only on single and dual-motor models, while Ascend trims are reserved for higher-end tri-motor and quad-motor models.
Rivian's basic trim is the Adventure, though it's far removed from the entry-level trims of standard SUVs and pickup trucks. This trim offers several luxurious materials, including natural wood and premium microfiber.
The R1S Adventure trim comes in three colors—Black Mountain, Black Mountain with Black Ash, and Ocean Coast with Dark Ash. It boasts several standard luxurious features, including:
Perforated upholstery
Heated and ventilated seats
Heated steering wheel
Driver and passenger lumbar adjustment
Recycled microfiber headliner
Center console with integrated wireless charger
Rivian Audio
Carpet floor mats
Panoramic glass roof
Rivian's Ascend trim elevates an already impressive experience, adding several luxury amenities and materials. Like the Adventure, the Ascend comes in three color options—Black Mountain and Brown Ash, Ocean Coast and Driftwood, and Slate Sky and Walnut. Standard features include:
Perforated upholstery
Heated and ventilated seats
Heated steering wheel
Driver and passenger lumbar adjustment
Solid wood accents
Center console with integrated wireless charger
Suede headliner
Rivian premium audio
Plaid floor mats
Dynamic glass roof
If you want to purchase a new Rivian R1S, protect your ride and optimize your driving experience with RealTruck's products and accessories.
Protect your Rivian's stain-susceptible flooring with Husky Liners Weatherbeater floor liners. These liners feature durable rubberized construction and an exceptional fit and finish. They are manufactured using Husky's FormFit™ Design, which employs 3D laser scanning to ensure a flawless fit. They're tough, stylish, and easy to install.
Order yours today, backed by Husky Liners' industry-leading limited lifetime warranty.
Give your Rivian's rear cargo area the same durable protection as the front floors with the Husky Liners Weatherbeater cargo liner, engineered for maximum durability, skid resistance, and style. Husky's patented FormFit™ Edge keeps spilled liquids and debris in the liner, preventing spillover onto the factory carpet.
Order yours today, backed by Husky Liners' industry-leading limited lifetime warranty.
Protect your Rivian's luxurious interior with a Covercraft Custom Windshield Sun Shade. This product helps prevent harmful UV rays from fading, cracking, or discoloring the interior, ensuring years of like-new looks.
Covercraft custom windshield sun shades are precisely cut to match your Rivian's windshield, reducing light-leaking gaps. Installation, removal, and storage are quick and easy. All orders are covered for a year.
RealTruck is your home for the best products to outfit your build for unforgettable adventures.
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