Rivian R1S seen in NZ, US customer deliveries start

A Rivian RIS SUV has been spotted in Christchurch but few details are available.

It was among three Rivian RIS EVs in camouflage wrapping reportedly to come from Otago, so it’s likely to have been doing winter testing of the Enduro power train.

Meanwhile, US customer deliveries have reportedly begun, according to InsideEVs.

It says previous R1S deliveries had been to Rivian employees.

InsideEVs adds the hotly anticipated SUV has been in production for several months, with Rivian chief executive RJ Scaringe taking delivery of his in December.

One R1S has been delivered to Rivian Forum member ‘Fletch’ in Pennsylvania, the publication adds, explaining what was said about it.

Rivian had hoped R1S customer deliveries would start in March-April 2022, but ongoing supply chain issues have prompted delays, the publication providing further information including Rivian’s claims it is on track to deliver 25,000 EVs this year but that ordering the R1S or R1T ute now will probably see late 2023 delivery due to the many reservations.