Rivian redesigns innovative all-electric R1 pickup and SUV, adds Nvidia chips and improves performance

Rivian Automotive: Revamped R1 Models to Push Boundaries

Table of Contents

1. Major Redesign
2. Enhanced Computing Power
3. Strategic Upgrades
4. Financial Pressures
5. Model Specifications
6. Pricing Details
7. Battery and Performance
8. Conclusion

Rivian Automotive has announced a significant redesign of its all-electric R1 pickup and SUV models for the 2025 model year. Despite outwardly looking similar to current models, the new versions boast substantial improvements in range, performance, and computing power, driven by advanced Nvidia chips.

Major Redesign

Rivian’s 2025 R1T and R1S models incorporate over 50% new hardware components compared to their predecessors. These updates include a complete reengineering of the vehicles’ batteries and electrical architectures, which are crucial for enhancing overall vehicle performance.

Rivian CEO and founder RJ Scaringe emphasized the importance of these updates:

“We continue to evolve our flagship R1 vehicles, offering quality and performance without compromise. Our revamped R1S and R1T push the technical boundaries further, creating our most capable products to date.”

Enhanced Computing Power

One of the standout changes is the tenfold increase in computing power. The new system employs dual Nvidia DRIVE Orin processors to power the “Autonomy Compute Module,” which includes advanced driver-assistant features. A premium version will also offer hands-free driving for limited periods, although drivers must remain attentive.

Strategic Upgrades

These updates are part of Rivian’s strategy to boost sales of its flagship models before launching the less-expensive R2 models in 2026. The R2 models are anticipated to start at around $45,000, which is crucial for Rivian’s expansion plans, especially as sales of its current models have slowed amid a sluggish industrywide sales pace for electric vehicles.

Financial Pressures

Rivian is facing significant financial challenges. The company reported a staggering loss of $1.45 billion in the first quarter of this year. As a result, Rivian has taken steps to cut headcount, reduce operational costs, and retool its Illinois plant to increase efficiency. Additionally, the company paused construction of a new plant in Georgia, saving $2.25 billion. Despite these measures, Rivian’s stock has dropped roughly 50% year to date.

Model Specifications

Deliveries for the 2025 R1S and R1T are set to begin immediately. Rivian will continue to offer three motor configurations: dual, tri, and quad. These configurations are paired with Standard, Large, and Max battery packs, offering ranges of 270 miles, 330 miles, and 420 miles, respectively.

Pricing Details

Pricing for the 2025 R1S SUV will start at $75,900, an increase of $1,000 from current models, with top-end trimotor models starting around $106,000. The starting price for the R1T remains unchanged at $69,900, but trimotor versions will top $100,000. Specific pricing for quad-motor models has not been announced.

Battery and Performance

The updated battery packs will continue to use the “2170 cylindrical cell,” with the pack enclosure now utilizing large high-pressure die castings to simplify manufacturing and reduce mass. The new Rivian-made drive units in the tri- and quad-motor vehicles significantly enhance performance. The top-end quad-motor now delivers up to 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 pound-foot of torque in Launch Mode, with 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 2.5 seconds, compared to the previous 835 horsepower and 908 pound-foot of torque.

The vehicles also feature luxurious, updated interiors and a fully redesigned software interface. Charging times have improved, with all vehicles capable of adding up to 140 miles of range in about 20 minutes.

Conclusion

Rivian’s bold redesign of the R1 models marks a significant leap forward in the electric vehicle market. By integrating advanced computing power, improving battery efficiency, and enhancing overall performance, Rivian aims to solidify its position in the competitive EV landscape. Despite financial challenges and market pressures, these strategic upgrades are poised to drive the company’s growth and set new standards in the industry. The launch of the less-expensive R2 models in 2026 will be another critical step in Rivian’s expansion strategy, potentially making their innovative technology accessible to a broader audience.