Why The Rivian R1S Is Everything You Could Want From An Electric SUV
If you are looking for that perfect electric SUV that checks off all the boxes, you may have to look no further than the Rivian R1S.
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Many electric SUVs have been on the market over the past few years. With EVs becoming increasingly desired, several automotive companies have thrown their hats into the ring, attempting to create the most user-friendly, affordable electric car. The Rivian R1S is a wonderful addition to the EV SUV team, with its incredible off-road abilities and impressive powertrain.
Released at the end of last year, the Rivian R1S is marketed as a family-friendly vehicle that will be the perfect first EV for any user. The battery pack is unbeatably powerful and adaptable, with the ability to operate in severe weather. The battery itself can withstand temperatures ranging from 130ºF to -25ºF. It can also deliver between 260 – 320+ miles of range depending on what battery pack you choose to install in the vehicle. Rivian recommends the Dual Motor and 22-inch wheel combination for optimal range per charge.
For the Rivian R1S, its powertrain is one of its best assets. It has impressive all-wheel-drive functions, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of three seconds. The RS1 can tow up to 7,700 lbs of cargo alongside a wading depth of 3 feet. Rivian wanted to create a multi-purpose and powerful vehicle, two desires that the car company achieved with this EV. Founder and CEO RJ Scaringe commented on the car’s abilities, stating that the company wanted to make an EV that could carry “all your gear on long road trips. With the R1S’s towing capacity and all-wheel drive, it is the go-to EV for extensive driving both on and off-road.
The Rivian R1S SUV will soon enter its production phase, hopefully distributing cars out to consumers by 2024. But for those eager to know what the SUV feels and drives like, a recent test drive was available for Ars Technica writers who documented everything about the car’s interior to its smoothness in motion. The writers gloated about the EV’s stylish interior, with recycled wood trim to give the car some added elegance. There are ample USB-C ports as well as storage and cup holders lining the driver and passenger-seat areas. The interface in the middle of the front seats is entirely enabled by touch, providing an incredibly futuristic amenity to the SUV. Unfortunately for some, there is no Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support inside the vehicle.
The power of the Rivian R1S is outstanding compared to other EVs currently on the market. The front-drive wheels generate 415 hp and 413 lb-ft, while the rear-drive wheels produce 420 hp and 495 lb-ft. For each drive unit, two motors are installed for the maximum powertrain. Though it has intimidating power, the R1S smoothly accelerates to 60 mph in a few seconds without any quick jolts or uncomfortably. The Arc Technica team even put the SUV through an off-roading course, which showcased the car’s nimbleness through challenging obstacles.
For those wanting an electric SUV, the Rivian R1S may be the perfect car for your fast-paced lifestyle. Its sleek, spacious interior with optimal speed and agility makes it an extremely versatile EV. The starting price for the R1S is expected to be around $72,500 but may be priced higher due to continued supply chain interruptions and heightened demand.
