Rivian Ramping Up Production of Popular R1T and R1S EVs
Rivian is an American automotive and energy company that designs, manufactures, and sells electric vehicles (EVs). The company recently announced the R1T pickup truck and the R1S SUV.
Rivian has been working hard to get production of their R1T up to reasonable levels before adding the R1S to the mix. This is due to the fact that getting from low-rate initial production to something approaching full-rate production is very difficult under ideal circumstances. Additionally, they are also under contract to deliver 10,000 EVs to Amazon this year. Despite these challenges, many people are expecting the same press release camps/early reviews for the R1S as were seen with the R1T.
While some people are confident that their R1S will arrive in June or July, others don't share this confidence due to potential delays. Some believe that Rivian might be planning on delivering a few employee units of the R1S before the end of March in order to include them in their 2022 Q1 results. It's also speculated that we could see established media reviews in April and more non-employee units by the end of the month. Many expect significant numbers of deliveries between May and June before the end of Q2.
The good news is that it seems like the R1S should be simpler to produce than the R1T since they're two different lines. Thus, ramping up production of one shouldn't slow down production of the other. With how quickly Rivian is increasing output for both models, many are becoming increasingly optimistic about delivery timelines.
Overall, only time will tell when we can expect to see more information regarding Rivian's plans for releasing its R1S model. In any case, it looks like we can look forward to seeing more of these amazing EVs soon!
Are we expecting the same press release camps/early reviews for the R1S as we did for the R1T?
Rivian is likely trying to get the production of the R1T up to reasonable levels before adding the R1S to the mix. It's possible that they will defer R1S production for 6-12 months until they reach an internal target number with stable output. Additionally, Rivian is under contract to deliver 10,000 EDV's to Amazon this year, which may be taking up a lot of their resources.
Is there any update on when the R1S will be delivered?
Speculation suggests that Rivian may deliver a few employee units before the end of March, followed by established media reviews in April and a few more non-employee units before the next investor call. It's expected that R1Ss will be delivered in more significant numbers between May-June (before end of Q2).
Will the production of the R1S slow down the existing R1T build?
No, since they are two different lines, the R1S build should not slow down the existing R1T build. Rivian has stated that they are using a modular production system, which allows them to quickly switch between different models. This means that the R1S build should not slow down the existing R1T build.
Will the R1S have any new features compared to the R1T?
Yes, the R1S will have some additional features compared to the R1T. It will have a longer wheelbase and a higher ground clearance, allowing it to tackle tougher terrain. Additionally, it will feature an adjustable air suspension, allowing drivers to adjust the ride height for better off-road performance. The interior will also be updated with more luxurious materials and finishes.