Video: Rivian reveals next gen ute and SUV

A second generation of the Rivian R1T ute and R1S seven-seat SUV has been introduced by the US EV manufacturer.

Rivian says its new R1 EVs feature advanced performance, am evolved tech platform and updated designs – including a new Rivian designed and built quad motor delivering 764.3kW power, 1624Nm torque (in “Launch Mode”) and a zero to 96.5km/h sprint in under 2.5 seconds.

A tri-motor variant is offered as well.

The new R1S SUV and R1T “pickup” (or ute) have been completely reengineered through hundreds of hardware improvements, performance upgrades, a fully redesigned software experience, and evolved in-house drive systems, says Rivian.

These vehicles also offer new motor configurations, design elements, and trim and tyre choices for customers, it adds.

“Our revamped R1S and R1T push the technical boundaries further, creating our most capable products to date,” says Rivian founder and chief executive RJ Scaringe.

New Large and Max battery packs have redesigned modules and more efficient packaging, making them easier to manufacture and service, while offering an estimated 675.9km range, says Rivian, adding that a new lithium iron phosphate-based Standard pack with 434.5km Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated range is available too.

“To further optimise efficiency, this next generation platform introduces a redesigned heat pump-based thermal system, improving rider temperature comfort and saving range. New 22-inch aero wheels and tyres also reduce drag, with a coefficient as low as 0.297, optimising range to take adventures further.

“Additionally, an updated suspension and air springs make for a smoother on-road ride without compromising off-road capability.

“Our second generation R1 vehicles feature an entirely new electrical architecture and compute platform which reduces 17 ECUs found in first generation vehicles down to seven, maximising efficiency and allowing for the removal of 1.6 miles (2.6km) of wiring from each vehicle.”

The Rivian Autonomy Platform is powered by 11 cameras, five radars, and AI prediction technology.

“Our Autonomy Compute Module is 10 times more powerful than our previous system,” says Rivian.

“With 360-degree visibility, eight times the number of camera megapixels from previous vehicles, and redundant sensors, the system can see far into the distance, even in poor weather and light conditions. It is available on all vehicles as standard, including features like high-resolution camera blind spot monitoring and highway assist.

“A premium version of the system, Rivian Autonomy Platform+, features an even broader set of capabilities. Lane change on command is available to start, with enhanced highway assist available later this year, and expanded road coverage to follow.”

New headlights and taillights are available too.

Rivian says the new headlights feature adaptive drive beam technology which will be enabled later this year, helping drivers stay more aware while driving on dark roads by adapting dynamically to oncoming traffic.

Additionally, new features and options are available with the next generation R1S and R1T.

“Rivian owners can use car keys in Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch, or with select Google Pixel devices, to seamlessly unlock and start up their vehicles, and even share keys digitally with family and friends.”

A new Rivian-developed sound system and Dolby Atmos are available with Rivian Premium Audio.

Connect+, a new subscription service, supports streaming video through Google Cast and provides access to more than 3000 apps, adding more entertainment to the R1’s centre display.

A dynamic glass roof can be tinted electronically while an interior lighting system can be customised, and a redesigned software user interface is powered by Unreal Engine.

Two new premium Ascend trims are offered, as well as a new Storm Blue exterior paint, and blackout trim options.

The new R1s achieve a 15% lower standard lifetime carbon footprint than the first generation R1 platform, thanks largely to manufacturing and operating efficiencies and improvements in the materials supply chain, says Rivian.

Pricing for the second generation R1S start at NZ$124,309 (US$75,900) and R1T NZ$114,489 (US$69,900) with production based in Normal, Illinois and deliveries available immediately from there, says Rivian.

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