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Forbes
a day ago
- Automotive
- Forbes
The Rivian R1T Quad Might Be The Most Incredible EV On The Road
Last year Rivian reached a milestone in its short life: just after announcing its next models, the R2, R3 and R3X, the company rolled out an updated R1 line: A new second generation of the R1T and R1S. These second generation models, while looking almost identical to the first generation, feature new electronics, new technology, an in-house hands-free driving system, a longer-range battery—adding up to 50 miles—and more power. The pinnacle of the new Rivian flagship is the R1 Quad. With four motors, one for each wheel, and delivering 1,025 HP, the Rivian R1 Quad, priced from about $116,000 and topping out at $130,000 for the launch edition, is available in both the R1T pickup truck and the R1S SUV. And they are designed to be not just the ultimate EV, but the ultimate off-roader. Designed To Climb Impossible Hills With Incredible Power For off-roaders, horsepower isn't really the key ingredient to conquering a vaunted hill or trail. For the R1 Quad, HP is more of a by-product of four motors and engineering designed to climb every mountain and go the long-haul distance, delivering as much power to each wheel as the driver and circumstances require. Skill, equipment and engineering are far more important, as is torque: the new Quad delivers 1,198 pound-feet of torque. Together, this is really where this electric SUV shines. The R1 Quad's engineering was real-world tested in two particularly grueling competitions: The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and the Rebelle Rally. The Pikes Peak Hill Climb pits performance cars against the 12.4 mile, oxygen-starved 14,115 foot Colorado summit. A natural space for EVs it's less so for pickup trucks and large SUVs. After Rivian test engineer Gardiner Nichols ran the Hill Climb in his own R1T, the company added his feedback to improve the R1 Quad's torque, power and battery management; in 2024 Nichols drove the Second Gen R1T Quad to place in the exhibition division. The resulting production version of the R1 Quad incorporates even more of Nichols' findings. To test the R1 Quad in an off-road setting, the company entered it in the 2024 Rebelle Rally, the longest off-road rally in the US and one of the most grueling; competitors, all women, compete using maps and compasses. The terrain ranges from steep mountains and rock faces to deep desert sands and rutted trails. Rivian engineers Lilly Macaruso and Alex Anderson won the overall competition, the first EV to take the top prize, building on Rivian's growing off-road legacy. But this race was also about learning; Macaruso and Anderson focused on how to improve drive modes and to better tune each aspect of the R1 Quad's performance. The result? Not just a more robust off-road experience but also, new features that allow it to deliver an over-the-top performance. Kick Turn And RAD Tuning 'Party Tricks' Are Useful, Too The pinnacle of these new features are two new drive modes: RAD Tuner and Kick Turn. These harness the R1 Quad's advanced technology and pair it with the four motor system and four wheel steering to allow two new functions: Highly customizable 4WD settings, known as RAD Tuner and the ability to execute a turn so tight the R1 Quad essentially spins in place, known as Kick Turn. RAD Tuner, which stands for Rivian Adventure Department, functions like the equalizer on a stereo system, allowing the driver to set the level of wheel slip, ride height and torque balance, among others. The system visualizes each setting in an animated graph. Kick Turn, once activated, requires the driver to tap buttons on either side of the steering wheel for a directional turn; the harder and longer you press the button the faster and tighter the turn. The gaming-like control only takes only a few minutes to learn, though regulating speed, accommodating pitch and road conditions on a trail are more challenging. I had the chance to try Kick Turn on a closed dirt course, the only place it's proper to learn to use it. It's easy and intuitive to use, unlike some other tank-turn or customized four-wheel steering systems on high-end off-roaders. Once on the trail, though, Kick Turn was useful but took more focus to get right. Changes Add Up To One Of The Most Well-Received Off-Roaders Of The Year The numbers presented by the Rivian R1 Gen 2 Quad are pretty impressive: the company says it will hit 0-60 MPH in 2.5 seconds in addition to generating 1,025 HP and 1,198 pound-feet of torque; driving range has increased to up to 400 miles in Max battery pack models and driving in Conserve mode; in standard mode range is estimated at 374 miles, still stellar for an SUV or pickup truck. New features are pretty stellar, too: Rivian just rolled out its updated hands-free highway driving system after taking on the development of the system itself. Rivian says that by bringing it all in house the company can update the system and activate new features more quickly. With more autonomous vehicles on the road and more consumer-driven vehicles offering level-two hands-free highway driving, remaining competitive is key to staying on top. In the exterior R1 Quad buyers will notice new signifier details. It starts with the Quad logo on the rear of tail gate and the Rivian nameplate shadowlined in Laguna Blue, which is also the color of the brake calipers. Most iconic is the Rivian Gear Guard mascot on the the right side of the tailgate, its hair blowing in the wind in a nod to the 1,025 HP. Buyers of the R1 Quad will also be the first easily charge at a Tesla Supercharger; this model comes with a NACS charge port, though the R1 Quad can still charge at a standard CCS charger with an adapter. The performance the details and the new technology added up to one of the best received updated off-roaders of the year so far; reviews from top automotive writers, off-road writers and experts have been overwhelmingly glowing. I can add to that: After spending a day learning just how capable the Rivian R1 Quad is I was convinced. It easily conquered trails I'd previously only thought a small ATV would be capable of climbing. What Hasn't Changed: A Lush Interior And Iconic Rivian Design True to its roots and mission, the interior of the Rivian R1T and R1S are pretty much unchanged; that's good for those who love the large expanses of wood and leatherette, plaid fabrics and accent piping that create a cabin that feels like a retreat. Buyers who want something more distinct in the top-of-the-line model, such as fancier seats or more plush details will have to rest in the exclusive details and colors that R1 Gen 2 Quad buyers are offered. The cabin is anchored by screens and that is where most functions live. The multimedia system is still fairly intuitive and easy to figure out, though it may take even digital natives some time to find all its fun features and functions.
Time of India
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Rivian just unleashed the fastest off-road EV ever — meet the 2026 Quad-Motor beast
Rivian has just come out with something that will change the game. The 2026 Quad-Motor R1T and R1S are amazing because they have amazing acceleration, can handle tough trails, and have the latest software. Rivian's newest models are fast, easy to control, and useful all at the same time. They work well on both dirt trails and drag strips. Rivian demonstrates once more that EVs are superior to gas models in terms of off-road capability and acceleration. The 2026 Rivian R1S and R1 Quad models have off-road capabilities and supercar acceleration . What makes Rivian's Quad-Motor system so powerful? by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play War Thunder now for free War Thunder Play Now Undo Owing to their distinctive features and design, the R1 Quad models are unlike anything else on American roads. Currently, Rivian manufactures a full-size family SUV and a full-size pickup truck as electric vehicles. Both electric models' ground clearance, design, and strong electric motors earned them excellent reviews for their capabilities. The 2026 Quad, the most potent iteration of the R1 truck and SUV to date, is now being unveiled by the American electric vehicle manufacturer and automotive technology company. Live Events How fast is the new Rivian quad-motor? Four electric motors are used in Rivian R1 Quad models to transfer power to the wheels. More horsepower and nearly unbelievable acceleration times are guaranteed with a quad-motor all-wheel drive system. The 2026 Rivian R1 Quad versions can achieve 0-60 miles per hour in around 2.5 seconds, rendering them among the fastest production vehicles ever manufactured. In comparison, the 2025 Lamborghini Urus has a 0-60 miles per hour acceleration in around 3.1 seconds. Rivian R1 Quad trucks and SUVs surpass several supercars in speed, are more economical, and provide greater practicality in terms of space and functionality. The R1T Quad and R1S Quad can complete a quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds, generating an impressive 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 pound-feet of torque. All four motors are oil-cooled and independently regulated. The R1 Quad variants have a driving range of up to 400 miles in Conserve Mode. Jeff Hammoud, Rivian's Chief Design Officer, articulated that the brand's objective is to deliver a luxury experience while being approachable. He instructed the team to ensure the R1 embodies the essence of a six-figure vehicle that one would not hesitate to take off-road. Following the evaluation of the Rivian R1T Quad, it was concluded that it performs as claimed. The electric vehicles progressively enhance due to over-the-air software upgrades, and several options exist to tailor the R1 to your own preferences and requirements. The new Rivian R1 Quad is "software-defined," integrating advanced technologies that enhances your driving experience. What is the price of the 2026 Rivian R1 Quad? The starting price of Rivian's R1S Quad Launch Edition electric SUV is $125,990. The starting price of the 2026 Rivian R1S Quad's standard model is $121,990. How is software shaping the new R1 experience? "Kick turn," which modifies the power to the inside wheels and allows the vehicle to spin around its center while in motion, is one of the most anticipated features. By pressing a button, off-roaders can now make tight turns on trails without having to perform the tiresome 3-point turn. Fans of Rivian might remember "tank turn," a feature that regulates power and tire grip but was never released. Rivian has, however, imposed certain software-powered restrictions on the feature, such as a speed limit and the restriction to spinning only in dirt. ALSO READ: Bezos to buy Vogue as a gift to new wife? Insiders link deal to Sanchez's cover shoot, could cost him billions Kick turn and other software-meets-hardware features, such as its "RAD Tuner," which enables users to modify the vehicle's driving dynamics through the central touchscreen, have been added by the company to the quad-motor. There are also some very useful features here besides off-road tricks. In Conserve Mode with the right tires, the vehicles can go up to 400 miles, seat up to seven people, and tow up to 11,000 pounds. Rivian's 140 kWh battery charges through a Tesla-style NACS port and comes with a free CCS adapter, which lets drivers use both Tesla Superchargers and older public charging networks. The new trip planner software can even tell if you need an adapter or not. It's clear that Rivian's engineers wanted more than just brute strength. The Quad-Motor system is a technical demonstration of what happens when smart software and electric performance meet serious off-road intent. Rivian is betting that this ultra-capable flagship lineup will carry them forward until mid-2026, when cheaper R2 models are expected to come out. FAQs How fast is the new Rivian quad-motor? The 2026 R1T accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds, faster than many supercars. What is a Kick Turn, and why does it matter? Kick Turn allows the vehicle to spin tightly on dirt trails, making it easier for off-roaders to maneuver in tight spaces.
USA Today
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
Get up close and personal with Rivian's R1 Quad, one of the quickest EVs on the market
Rivian once again proves EVs can beat gas models when it comes to acceleration and off-road capability. Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN) currently produces two electric vehicles: a full-size pickup truck and a full-size family SUV. Both electric models received top-tier reviews for their capabilities, thanks to ground clearance, design and powerful electric motors. Now, the American electric vehicle manufacturer and automotive technology company is unleashing the most powerful version of the R1 truck and SUV yet, the 2026 Quad. Rivian R1 Quad models use four electric motors to transfer power to move the wheels of the vehicles. A quad-motor all-wheel drive system means more horsepower and acceleration times almost too quick to believe. USA TODAY got up close and personal with the R1T Quad electric pickup truck, and we can confirm it's just as mind-blowing on the road as it is on paper. The 2026 Rivian R1 Quad is insanely quick 2026 Rivian R1 Quad models rocket from 0-60 miles per hour in around 2.5 seconds, making these EVs some of the quickest production vehicles ever made. For context, the 2025 Lamborghini Urus accelerates from 0-60 miles per hour in around 3.1 seconds, according to Car and Driver. Rivian R1 Quad trucks and SUVs are quicker than many supercars, more affordable, and more practical in terms of spaciousness and capability. The R1T Quad and R1S Quad can do a quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds. The EVs produce a massive 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 pound-feet of torque. Each of the four motors are oil-cooled and individually controlled. R1 Quad models boast up to 400 miles of driving range (in Conserve Mode). How much does the 2026 Rivian R1 Quad cost? Rivian's R1S Quad Launch Edition electric SUV starts at $125,990. The regular version of the 2026 Rivian R1S Quad starts at $121,990. The new 2026 Rivian R1T Launch Edition starts at $119,990. The regular version of the R1T Quad starts at $115,990. Rivian also charges a fee of $1,895 for destination and freight in the United States. What sets the 2026 Rivian R1 Quad apart from competitors? USA TODAY interviewed Rivian's Chief Design Officer, Jeff Hammoud, to find out what makes Rivian R1 Quad electric trucks and SUVs different from the competition. "Our brand ethos. In terms of being able to provide a premium experience that's still inviting.", said Hammoud. When asked what design challenges the team faced when developing the latest Rivian Quad models, Rivian's Chief Design Officer answered, "We asked ourselves, how do you make the R1 feel like a six-figure car that you won't be afraid to off-road in?" After testing the Rivian R1T Quad, I determined that it's every bit as capable as advertised. Rivian's latest electric vehicle drives like a sports car, but offers the ground clearance (nearly 15.0 inches) and design of a true off-road vehicle without sacrificing any luxury materials or tech for capability. Hammoud noted that the EVs "continue to improve over time" thanks to over-the-air software updates. Additionally, there are plenty of ways to customize the R1 to your individual wants and needs, including creating an entire driver profile for your vehicle and even specific drive modes. The new Rivian R1 Quad is "software-defined," incorporating plenty of futuristic technology that elevates your driving experience. Rivian's latest EV pushes the envelope both from an engineering and design perspective.
