Rivian R1T review: new electric pickup truck driven

There aren’t many electric full size pickups on sale today, but Rivian has stepped up to plug this gap in the market with its revolutionary new R1T.

Rivian R1T specs:

• Four electric motors
• Battery: 135kWh
• Range: 314 miles
• Power: 800hp
• Torque: 900Nm
• 0-60mph: 3.8 seconds
• Starting price: $67,500 (approx. £51,000)

Rivian R1T design

Glance at the new Rivian R1T from the side and you’ll spot the usual pickup truck silhouette. This is the only conventional-looking aspect of this super-futuristic truck, however.

You’ll spot a full-width light bar dominating the otherwise uncluttered front end, along with small oval headlights that give the R1T a distinct character that you won’t mistake for a run-of-the-mill pickup truck.

The flush door handles keep the sides looking clean and there’s a similar style light bar at the rear as well.

Rivian R1T interior

The interior of the new Rivian R1T is more like a luxury car than a pickup truck. The materials look and feel great, and they’re all vegan-friendly as well. The headlining is even made of recycled materials without compromising on quality.

The cabin is packed with clever features too. There’s a bluetooth speaker hiding under the driver’s seat for those beachside barbecues, as well as a torch in the door in case the party carries on into the night.

The overall design is fairly minimalist, although not to the same extreme as something like a Tesla Model X or cybertruck. You still get a separate driver’s display and the infotainment system is responsive and easy to use.

Rivian R1T driving

Tempting buyers out of their V8 pickup trucks and into an EV is never going to be easy, but the Rivian R1T has some impressive stats which will make the switch more appealing.

The 135kWh battery pack means the R1T has 314 miles of range. It’s quick as well, with 800hp and 900Nm of torque pushing it from 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds.

It has four-wheel-drive, courtesy of a motor on each wheel, which makes for great performance off-road. The truck can send the exact amount of power necessary to each wheel to maximise traction and get you out of sticky situations.

Rivian R1T verdict

If you’re looking for a full size pickup which is fast, luxurious and capable off-road, the Rivian R1T could be just what you’re looking for.

You certainly won’t lose it in a car park either, not with those outlandish styling details. Deliveries are set to start in the USA from March 2022, however there’s no word on whether it will come to the UK.

If you’re looking to get a great deal on your next car, check out carwow’s configurator. Simply put in the details of the car you want, then sit back and relax as our trusted dealers come back with their best offers.