Rivian, an American electric vehicle manufacturer, has released images and information about its all-electric double-cab bakkie set to debut at the LA motor show, along with the R1S SUV to follow soon.
The R1T’s distinctive styling incorporates strong proportions and clean continuous lines. The main body line wraps up and around the cab while highlighting the “gear tunnel” cutline (see images above). The R1T features short overhangs, high ground clearance and competitive approach and departure angles.
Moving to the interior the brand’s designers looked to create a premium, comfortable yet robust cabin. To do this, inspiration from outside of the automotive industry such as contemporary furniture design and hiking and outdoor gear were evaluated to drive the design.
With an electric motor for each wheel, the Rivian R1T is capable of producing up to 520 kW and 1 120 N.m. The manufacturer claims an impressive 600+ km operating range and a wading depth of up to 1 metre. More impressive though is a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 3,2 seconds.
The bakkie utilises a sophisticated suspension setup incorporating double-wishbone suspension up front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. The suspension setup also features dynamic roll control and adaptive dampers along with ride-height adjustable air-suspension.
“We’re launching Rivian with two vehicles that reimagine the pickup and SUV segments,” says Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe. “I started Rivian to deliver products that the world didn’t already have – to redefine expectations through the application of technology and innovation. Starting with a clean sheet, we have spent years developing the technology to deliver the ideal vehicle for active customers.
“This means having great driving dynamics on any surface on- or off-road, providing cargo solutions to easily store any type of gear, whether it’s a surfboard or a fishing rod and, very importantly, being capable of driving long distances on a single charge. From the inside out, Rivian has developed its vehicles with adventurers at the core of every design and engineering decision”.
