Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
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.
Last week, the electric vehicle maker unveiled a series of incentives to boost sales and clear out inventory of its 2023 and 2024 R1 models, including the R1S SUV and R1T truck.
According to the 3 pictures shared by a Rivian enthusiasts on X, the lot appears to house at least several dozens of these updated models, which feature new stadium headlights and lightbars, 20-inch wheels available in bright and dark finishes.
Rivian‘s Vice President of Software Development, Wassym Bensaid, said in late April that “about 80 percent” of the new features will be made available to the first version of R1 cars. This includes computer, sensor, and high-voltage charging hardware updates.
In a recent email sent to reservation holders, Rivian announced delays in deliveries for customers in Washington state. The electric vehicle manufacturer cited logistical challenges following a recent surge in financing and leasing deals as the primary reason for the delay.
The incentives include significant discounts, free upgrades, and lowered prices on battery options as the company prepares to launch refreshed versions of both models in early next year.
The 2023/2024 R1S model with the Quad-Motor option has been reduced to $6,000, down from $8,000. The Large battery option of the same model now costs $7,100, a reduction from the previous $9,100. The Max battery option has also seen a price drop, now available for $15,100, down from $19,100.
For the 2023 R1T model, Rivian is offering a free upgrade to the Performance Dual-Motor, which was previously a $5,000 option. Additionally, the Large battery option is now priced at $5,100, down from $9,100.
The 2024 R1T model also benefits from new incentives. The Large battery option for the Dual-Motor has been reduced to $3,100, previously $9,100. The Large battery option for the Performance Dual-Motor and Quad-Motor is now $5,100, also down from $9,100.
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The automaker has been urging early pre-order holders to finalize their purchase of an R1 model by the end of September or risk forfeiting their grandfathered pricing discount of about $18,000.
This discount enables customers to lease a base R1T for $420 per month with an initial payment of approximately $7,000. In an email sent to all the reservation holders, Rivian says “Now is the time” to take advantage of the discount of “approximately 20 percent”.
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.
The company has recently reported 13,980 vehicles produced in the first quarter of the year of which 13,588 were delivered to its customers. Despite having previously guided a 10-15% quarter-over-quarter drop from the fourth quarter, Rivian is on track and reaffirmed its 2024 production guidance of 57,000 vehicles.
Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
