Rivian puts brakes on super-fast R1T EV pick-up

By Dean Mellor 2 Min Read

American-based electric-truck manufacturer Rivian has put the brakes on production of its R1T EV pick-up and R1S EV 4×4 wagon until 2021 due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Rivian had originally planned to start production of the R1T in December of this year at its Normal, Illinois plant, but it has shut down the facility bar a skeleton crew of maintenance workers, according to a report on Autoblog.  The plant, which it bought off Mitsubishi in 2017, is also slated for production of the R1S wagon, as well as up to 100,000 electric vans.

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R1t Side
The Rivian R1T is expected to cost US$69K (A$110K) when it eventually goes on sale in the States in 2021

The R1T features a quad-motor system that delivers a claimed 750hp (560kW) for a 0-60mph (0-100km/h) time of just 3.0 seconds. It also offers a towing capacity of 11,000lb (5000kg) and genuine off-road capability, thanks to the quad-motor set-up that allows power to be directed to each wheel independently. In addition, the R1T’s ‘skateboard’ EV platform provides a low centre of gravity to aid both on- and off-road performance, while Rivian also claims and impressive wading depth in excess of 900mm.

Rivian Charge
On full charge the R1T is claimed to offer a range of 400 miles (640km)

Most significant for potential buyers will be the Rivian R1T’s claimed 400-mile (640km) range… and the fact it looks nothing like a Tesla Cybertruck, instead adopting more traditional pick-up styling.

Tesla Cybertruck Electric Pickup Truck Front 3 4 In Motion On Road Course
The Rivian R1T looks nothing like the Tesla Cybertruck… so it has every chance of success

 

The Rivian R1T is expected to cost from US$69K (A$110K) when it eventually goes on sale in the USA 2021.


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