The realm of electric vehicles is buzzing with anticipation as Rivian gears up to potentially expand its range of electric models. Following the reveal of the R2 electric SUV and the R3 and R3X hot hatches, the automaker has its sights on bringing new fervor to the R1 series with the possibility of a Rivian R1X model.
Rumors of an upcoming Rivian R1X swirl as the company is found to have trademarked the name with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The trademark application, made public by the USPTO in October 2023, was actually submitted by Rivian in 2021.
The designation R1X suggests a high-performance iteration of Rivian’s existing R1 platform, which includes the R1T pickup and the R1S SUV. Rivian has used the X suffix to signify the more athletic version of the R3, namely the R3X, indicating a similar strategy could be at play for the R1 series.
An R1X could not only refresh the line-up but also provide competition to prominent high-performance off-road vehicles like the Ford F-150 Raptor and the GMC Hummer EV. A previous patent filing from Rivian depicted a pickup with robust, Raptor-inspired features, including a novel bed storage system, hinting at future enhancements for the R1T.
Rivian bed storage patent image
For an R1X to stand out, it would likely need to exceed the quad-motor powertrain’s current 835 hp and 908 lb-ft of torque. Improvement in performance could also mean transitioning from the Bosch motors used in the quad setup to Rivian’s proprietary Enduro drive units that are currently exclusive to dual-motor configurations.
However, Rivian’s immediate focus is on bringing the newly introduced R2 and R3/R3X models into production. The R2 is expected to be produced at Rivian’s Normal, Illinois facility, starting in 2026, while the R3’s production details remain speculative.
FAQ about Rivian’s R1X
- What is the Rivian R1X?
- The Rivian R1X is a potential new high-performance version of the Rivian R1T pickup truck or R1S SUV, as suggested by a trademark filed by the company.
- Has the Rivian R1X been confirmed for production?
- As of now, Rivian has not officially confirmed the production of the R1X model. The company has merely trademarked the name with the USPTO.
- When was the R1X trademark filed?
- Rivian filed the trademark for the R1X name with the USPTO in 2021, and it was made public in October 2023.
- What could differentiate the Rivian R1X from existing models?
- The R1X is expected to feature a more powerful electric powertrain, potentially using Rivian’s in-house developed Enduro drive units, and may include advanced features such as the bed storage system shown in patent images.
- Where will the Rivian R1X be manufactured?
- The manufacturing location for the possible R1X model has not been disclosed. Rivian is currently focused on producing the R2 and the R3/R3X models.
Conclusion
The electric vehicle market is set for a jolt of excitement with the anticipation of a new Rivian R1X model. While Rivian has not officially announced the R1X, the trademark registration coupled with its recent moves in expanding their lineup, suggests the automaker is exploring all avenues to innovate and compete in the burgeoning EV arena. As the industry eagerly awaits further news, the potential of a high-performance R1X bodes well for fans of electric ventures and off-road adventure.
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