Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
Rivian is gearing up for a significant mid-cycle refresh of its R1S electric SUV and, presumably, the R1T truck. This week, Rivian‘s senior research and development fabricator Scott Vittelle posted on Instagram a picture — meanwhile deleted — from the filming in Seattle as the official launch approaches.
The refreshed R1S and R1T models are expected to debut next weeks, with dozens of updated vehicles ready for delivery seen at the company’s Normal, Illinois factory. Speculation points to June 27 as a potential launch date, coinciding with Rivian’s annual Investor Day.
Regarding cost optimisation for the new version, the chief executive RJ Scaringe has recently disclosed that the company was able to reduce the components in the battery pack from 41 to 16.
The refreshed R1S features a chiseled front light bar, reminiscent of the smaller R2 and R3 models, blacked-out badges, silver brake calipers, and new wheel designs.
The CCS1 charging port on the front-left remains, suggesting that Rivian will not switch to the NACS inlet for the R1 models yet, with the R2 expected to be the first model to feature this update.
According to a Rivian Forums user who shared photos of the revamped version earlier this week, the new R1S also includes new cameras, advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), and faster charging capabilities, though these claims have not been officially confirmed.
A leaked certification document reveals that the biggest changes are beneath the surface. The R1S will now come standard with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack and a heat pump. These replace the outgoing nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries and resistive heater HVAC system.
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The new LFP battery has a capacity of 92.5 kilowatt-hours, slightly smaller but lighter and more space-efficient than the NMC battery with the charging speed remaining the same and the peak rate reaching 210 kilowatts.
In preparation for the launch of the refreshed models, Rivian has rolled out a series of incentives to boost sales and clear out inventory of its 2023 and 2024 R1 models.
These incentives include significant discounts, free upgrades, and lowered prices on battery options. This move comes as the company addresses logistical challenges and delivery delays, particularly for customers in Washington state.
Rivian’s Vice President of Software Development, Wassym Bensaid, noted in late April that “about 80 percent” of the new features will be available for the first version of R1 cars. These updates include improvements in computer, sensor, and high-voltage charging hardware.
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe attended on Wednesday the Bernstein’s Annual Conference in New York where he revealed that the R3, expected to be launched in early 2026, will be priced at “mid to high $30,000s”.
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In the same interview, the chief executive acknowledged that from an investor’s perspective, the second quarter will appear less favorable due to the plant shutdown in April. The suspension lasted four weeks, significantly impacting production at the plant in Normal, Illinois.
Rivian‘s factory in Normal, Illinois, is currently filled with the 2025 Rivian R1S in its final form, devoid of any testing wraps. As of today, the official date for the launch of the refreshed R1T and R1S models is still unknown.
Billionaire George Soros’ investment firm, Soros Fund Management LLC, has added $154.16 million in principal amount of Rivian’s 4.625 percent convertible notes due 2029 in the first quarter, equivalent to 191.44 million shares.
The EV manufacturer confirmed recently that is partnering with Google on Google Cast and YouTube integration. Drivers will now have the capability to stream high-definition video content with premium sound directly to their vehicle’s screen, using both a native YouTube app and Cast-enabled apps on their phone or tablet.
Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
