Rivian R1S SUV has debuted with quad motor setup and Level 3 autonomous driving; will be available in three battery configurations
Right after unveiling the groundbreaking R1T electric pickup truck with claimed range of 643 km on a single charge and unbelievable statistics of 3,500 Nm torque to each of the four wheel via 147 kW motor responsible for on each wheel (14,000 Nm combined grounded torque), Rivian has made another strong statement with its R1S SUV.
Debuting at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, the R1S boasts several similarities to its electric pickup sibling but it has a different design from the A-pillar to appeal for a specific set of buyers. By being a SUV, the R1S’ body style is noticeable distinguishable with extended rear doors to seat as much as seven occupants.
The Rivian R1S has an athletic stance with squared profile while the nearly flat roofline, end-to-end LED light bar, horizontally stacked lighting assembly and muscular wheel arches enable a strong road presence resembling that of Range Rovers.
However, underneath the fancy skin the Rivian R1S is unlike anything we have seen before. The entry-level model comes with battery pack of 105 kWh capacity and it sends power to four electric motors. It enables a combined system output of 402 hp and 560 Nm of peak torque (7,000 Nm grounded torque).
It can accelerate from 0-96 kmph in just 4.9 seconds before topping 201 kmph while the claimed EV range stands at 386 km. The larger capacity 180 kWh battery pack, also with seven-seat configuration, enables 700 horsepower and 1,120 Nm (14,000 Nm grounded torque) with 0-96 kmph in 3.0 seconds and 498 km.
As if the astonishing numbers are not enough, the Michigan-based automotive technology company will be introducing a much larger 180 kWh battery pack and it won’t be available when the SUV goes on sale. With deliveries commencing from late 2020, prices start at $65,000 (Rs. 46 lakh approx) for the based 105 kWh configuration.
As its pickup sibling, the R1S SUV in its top specification produces 700 hp and 1,120 Nm torque (14,000 Nm grounded torque) with 0-96 kmph in 4.7 seconds and 659 km. The SUV is obviously shorter than R1T at 5,040 mm length and weighs 20 kilograms less but it has a taller stance for providing roomier cabin.
The interior will be as futuristic as it will get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 6.8-inch touchscreen for rear occupants and a huge 15.6-inch infotainment display as the use of traditional buttons has been ditched. It will also have Level 3 semi autonomous driving technology and other highly advanced features.