Rivian has started shipping its newly redesigned electric trucks and SUVs featuring a powerful tri-motor setup.
The 2025 R1T and R1S models, now equipped with 850 horsepower, offer a significant performance upgrade from the dual-motor versions, thanks to Rivian’s new Enduro motors.
Rivian Gen 2 R1T and R1S EVs Powertrain and Battery Performance
According to an Inside EVs report, the tri-motor configuration includes one motor on the front axle and two on the rear, marking the first time Rivian has adopted this setup.
Previous models were only available in dual or quad-motor configurations.
Rivian has paired the new powertrain with its Max battery pack, offering up to 405 miles on a single charge in conserve mode and 371 miles in all-purpose driving.
The R1T Ascend Tri-Max starts at $99,900, while the R1S SUV version comes in at $105,900.
Both vehicles come standard with premium features like a dynamic glass roof, a top-tier audio system, an onboard air compressor, and a stylish Black Mountain/Brown Ash Wood interior.
Rivian 2025 R1 Setup / Credit: Rivian Shop
Notably, Rivian’s move puts it in direct competition with Tesla’s Cybertruck, which also offers dual and tri-motor options.
Possible Tesla competition alert: The Rivian R1T. 750 horsepower. 400 miles of range. Starting at $69,000 in 2020 and they’re taking deposits now.
Basically it’s a kickstarter, but also a great look at the benefits of electric in a pickup. So much space!https://t.co/9ZttB15Oh8 pic.twitter.com/DawXgi5pUd
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) November 26, 2018
However, Tesla’s top-tier “Cyberbeast” model starts at $113,990, giving Rivian a price advantage in the electric truck segment.
Despite an uptick in EV sales year-over-year, electric trucks still trail behind electric cars and SUVs in market share.
The 2025 R1S Tri-Motor Ascend is already available for purchase through Rivian’s R1 Shop. Delivery times may vary, but a ready-made model typically takes 1-6 weeks to arrive once ordered.
Rivian is also offering several personalization choices for customers. In addition to the standard configurations, buyers can opt for the off-road All-Terrain package for an additional $3,700.
Paint colors like Storm Blue, Rivian Blue, and El Cap Granite cost $2,500, while Midnight and Red Canyon are available for $1,750.
Rivian continues to expand its lineup as it gears up to produce the lower-cost R2 SUV in 2026, followed by the R3 and R3X.
This is exciting! Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume and I are thrilled to announce the formation of a joint venture between our two companies. This partnership brings Rivian’s software and zonal electronics platform to a broader market through Volkswagen Group’s global reach and… pic.twitter.com/11XVNUo89J
— RJ Scaringe (@RJScaringe) June 25, 2024
Moreover, the company recently secured a $5bn investment from Volkswagen to support its ambitions, hoping that increased sales and customer interest will help maintain cash flow.