Rivian is an American electric vehicle manufacturer, not a brand under a larger automotive group. Founded in 2009, it has quickly become a major player in the EV market by focusing exclusively on electric adventure vehicles. The company is known for its innovative "skateboard" platform, which packages the battery, motors, and controls into a flat, modular chassis. This design allows for greater interior space and versatile vehicle configurations. Rivian's current lineup includes the R1T, an all-electric pickup truck, and the R1T, an all-electric SUV, both targeting consumers who value off-road capability and sustainability.
The company's credibility is bolstered by significant investment from Amazon, which also placed an order for 100,000 electric delivery vans. Rivian vehicles are characterized by their impressive performance specs, durable construction, and focus on outdoor recreation. For example, the quad-motor R1T can accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 3.0 seconds and offers features like a built-in air compressor and a unique Gear Tunnel for storage.
Here is a comparison of key specifications for their consumer vehicles:
| Model | Type | Estimated Range (Max Pack) | Horsepower (Quad-Motor) | Starting Price (approx.) |
|---|
| R1T | Pickup Truck | 410+ miles | 835 hp | $73,000 |
| R1S | SUV | 400+ miles | 835 hp | $78,000 |
| R1T (Dual-Motor) | Pickup Truck | 350+ miles | 600 hp | $69,000 |
| R1S (Dual-Motor) | SUV | 340+ miles | 600 hp | $75,000 |
| R1T (Performance Dual-Motor) | Pickup Truck | 350+ miles | 700 hp | $74,000 |
Rivian operates its own production facility in Normal, Illinois, and is building a direct-to-consumer sales and service network, similar to Tesla. While it's an independent brand, its success is closely watched as a bellwether for the electric truck and SUV segment.
