Video Summary
The second-generation Rivian R1S has significantly reduced wiring due to zonal architecture, which saved about 40 pounds of copper. The design uses seven ECUs down from seventeen, resulting in lower latency and faster processing. Aesthetically, the design changes are subtle, but they improve user experience.The R1S lacks direct competitors, partially comparing to the Model X for 3-row seating or the Hummer EV for off-roading capability, but none are both. The Kia EV9 is electric and has 3 rows, but it doesn't have off-roading capabilities.
The review model features a tri-motor setup costing an extra 16,000 dollars, producing 850 horsepower and 1100 pound-feet of torque which allows it to do 0-60 in 2.9 seconds. The second generation model includes a dynamic disconnect to minimize parasitic loss to improve efficiency. In conserve mode, power is sent only to the front motor for front-wheel drive. A quad-motor version will be available with 1000 horsepower and 1200 pound-feet of torque which can achieve 0-60 in 2.5 seconds. All R1S models are all-wheel drive, with the front relying on brake torque vectoring while the rear boasts true torque vectoring with two motors.
The model tested has the Max pack 14,000 dollar battery option producing 420 miles. With level 2 charging, it charges in about 15 hours. A large battery model is available, rated for around 320 miles, and a standard battery exists, rated for 270. On a test loop in mid-teen weather, the model achieved 2.5 miles per kilowatt-hour equating to 350 miles. Testing at 75 mph on the highway in a headwind came to 1.81 miles per kilowatt hour equating to around 250 miles per battery.
The R1S is compatible with Tesla superchargers with an adapter. Weight with the Max pack comes to 7,000 pounds, but it is about 2,000 pounds lighter than the Hummer EV. The vehicle is equipped with air suspension including adaptive dampers and air springs. The suspension has been retuned for a softer feel. Despite a three row interior and the massiveness of the SUV it has great driving characteristics and hides its weight well.
Colors other than silver cost extra, for example the Rivian blue paint is a 2,500 dollar option. Regarding the inside, the reviewer notes there’s no glove box. The tested Model came equipped with “Sound and Vision” pack with a panoramic roof, which features electro-frosting. Also has a split folding gate. The R1S towing capacity tops out at 7000 pounds, but a truck version (R1T) can tow up to 11,000 pounds.
Technology features: it displays side-view camera angles as a lane change is executed. It has 360 degree cameras that are among the best. The Yetti system (gear guard) functions similarly to the Sentery mode, providing the surrounding view recorded video of the car's proximity.
Regarding off-roading, the R1S has 15 inches of ground clearance and wade to three feet of water. All underbody is plated up so you do not have to worry about it. It is fully over-the-air update capable, but unfortunately still lacks support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Regenerative braking cannot be turned off, also, a weird thing is that the blinkers only turn off on wheel turn, they reset if they are not going a certain amount to the turn.
