Rivian Automotive has announced updates to its all-electric R1 truck and SUV models for the 2025 model year, focusing on improving range, performance, and computing power by incorporating NVIDIA chips into the vehicles. Although the exterior design remains largely unchanged, Rivian has redesigned more than half of the hardware components of the vehicles, including the batteries and electrical architecture. The CEO and founder of Rivian, RJ Scaringe, stated that these updated R1S and R1T models represent the most capable products the company has produced to date.
One of the key enhancements to the new vehicles is their computing power, which Rivian claims has increased by tenfold compared to the previous system. This is achieved through the use of dual Nvidia DRIVE Orin processors to support the Autonomous Computing Module, which includes driver-assist features. Additionally, a premium version of the system will offer a broader set of capabilities, including hands-free driving for limited periods, although drivers are advised to remain attentive to the road at all times.
These updates come as Rivian aims to drive sales of its flagship models before the release of the more affordable “R2” models, expected to debut in the first half of 2026 with a starting price of around $45,000. Lower-priced vehicles are seen as crucial for Rivian’s growth strategy, as sales of its current models have slowed amid a wider stagnation in the electric vehicle market. To optimize its operations, the company has implemented cost-cutting measures, such as reducing staff, adjusting facility operations, and pausing the construction of a new plant in Georgia to save capital expenses.
Despite these efforts, Rivian’s financial performance has been challenged, with reported losses of $1.45 billion in the first quarter of this year and a decline of approximately 50% in its share value year-to-date. Nevertheless, deliveries of the 2025 R1S and R1T models will commence immediately, with various motor configurations and battery pack options available to customers, offering maximum ranges of up to 420 miles.
The starting price for the updated R1S SUV will increase by $1,000 to $75,900, while top-of-the-line tri-motor models will start at around $106,000. The R1T truck will maintain its starting price of $69,900, with prices exceeding $100,000 for the tri-motor variant. The company has not disclosed specific pricing for the four-motor models. The battery packs have been updated to optimize manufacturing processes and reduce weight, while the vehicles now boast higher horsepower and torque outputs, improved interiors, redesigned software interfaces, and faster charging times, capable of adding up to 140 miles of range in about 20 minutes.
Article Source
https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2024/06/06/rivian-r1-pickup-suv-redesigned.html
