Fresh patent images and intel suggest that Rivian is developing new high-performance, rugged versions of the R1T and R1S that will arrive well ahead of the smaller R3X
April 28, 2024 at 09:51
- Rivian is developing an off-road performance variant of their R1T pickup or R1S SUV, potentially called the R1X.
- The R1X will have a rugged design with increased ground clearance, aggressive bumpers, and potentially a tri-motor setup exceeding 835 hp.
- The new addition to Rivian’s range would compete in a new segment, potentially surpassing the off-road capabilities of the Ford F-150 Raptor and Jeep Wrangler.
Rivian isn’t letting up on its electric off-road push and now appears to have set its sights on the likes of the Ford Bronco Raptor and Ram 1500 TRX. Following the reveal of the R3X compact off-road SUV earlier this year (hitting dealerships in late 2026 or early 2027), Rivian seems to be gearing up for an off-road performance version of its Rivian R1T pickup or R1S SUV—or perhaps both.
So, what’s the intel on all of this? Last year, the electric automaker filed a trademark for the R1X name with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), alongside older patent images that reveal an off-road-focused truck with various bedside storage options.
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We’ve already showcased the truck, so let’s illustratively explore the SUV variant further.
Chunkier, Bolder, Ready for Anything
Compared with the R1T and R1S it’s based on, the R1X variant will sport a rugged aesthetic that leans into its trail-blazing potential. Key visual variances include a redesigned front fascia with chamfered edges, corner step cut-outs below the headlamps, and a narrow hood vent. Further down, a bumper reminiscent of Jeep’s design enhances approach angles, while two prominent recovery points protrude prominently.
Moving to the side, you’ll notice pumped fenders, taller rubber, a higher ride height and an integrated rear sidestep. The vehicle’s aesthetics are further enhanced by extra cladding around the bumpers, wheel wells and orange exterior accents.
Cabin styling will likely be a play on the R3X, which has a two-tone black-and-tan interior with playful orange inserts. Expect figure-hugging sports seats and off-road-themed easter eggs strategically placed throughout the interior.
Tri-motor Performance
Patent drawings possibly showing the Rivian R1X
While the R1X’s power output specifics are still unknown, some sources suggest it could switch to a lighter, tri-motor setup that surpasses the current quad-motor version’s 835 hp (623 kW) and 908 ft-lb (1231 Nm) of torque, firmly out-gunning the F-150 Raptor and putting it on par with Tesla’s Cyberbeast.
As indicated in an update to NHTSA’s VIN database, a tri-motor option will also be included as part of the standard R1T and R1S lineup for 2025.
For off-road performance, it will sport improved approach and departure angles, special all-terrain software features, trail-rated rubber, and a bespoke off-road-biased suspension tune.
Rivals on Notice
Realistically, the R1X would have a segment all to itself. Sure, there is the GMC Hummer SUV EV and fossil-fueled Chevy Tahoe Z71, but they’re one size up on the nimbler Rivian. Arguably, the Ford Bronco Raptor and Jeep Wrangler 4xe are closer in size, but neither are direct competitors when it comes to fully electric propulsion.
Launch and Pricing
Currently, nothing is firmly scheduled, but we anticipate the R1X to make its in 2025 at the earliest. This timeframe would better align with the recent production pause for R1T and R1S to upgrade facilities, a significant undertaking that halted new orders until late summer.
Given that the standard R1S starts at $74,900 for the dual-motor model and tops out at $92,000 for the quad-motor version before considering any options, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to expect the R1X to command a significant price premium, regardless of whether it comes in pickup, SUV or both forms, easily exceeding the $100,000 mark.
Should Rivian go Raptor-chasing? Share your views in the comments below.
