Image Credit: Rivian.Rivian buyers shopping for the most affordable version of the R1T or R1S will now have to spend significantly more. The electric vehicle maker has officially removed its Dual Standard variants from its online configurator, increasing the starting price of both models by $7,000.The move was expected after Rivian confirmed earlier this year that the entry-level trims would eventually be phased out. Their disappearance now leaves the company without a sub-$80,000 R1T or R1S.While the change raises the cost of entry for Rivian's flagship models, it also reflects a broader shift in the company's product strategy. Rivian is increasingly positioning the newly launched R2 as its more accessible electric vehicle.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe updated lineup simplifies the R1 range while giving buyers longer driving range as standard. Even so, customers looking for the lowest possible purchase price now have fewer options.The Cheapest R1 Models Are Gone🪦 R1S/R1T Dual Standard: GONE 🪦Rivian has officially killed the R1S/R1T Dual Standard. pic.twitter.com/fVtVbhQbzw— Chris Hilbert (@Hilbe) June 23, 2026The discontinued Dual Standard models paired Rivian's dual-motor all-wheel-drive system with the company's smallest battery pack. Those configurations offered an EPA-estimated driving range of 270 miles.Before being discontinued, the R1T Dual Standard started at $72,990. The R1S Dual Standard carried a starting price of $76,990 before destination charges and optional equipment.With those trims removed, the Dual Large versions become the new entry point for both vehicles. Pricing now begins at $79,990 for the R1T and $83,990 for the R1S.Buyers Get More Range For The Extra MoneyAlthough prices have increased, buyers also receive Rivian's larger battery pack as standard. That upgrade boosts EPA-estimated range from 270 miles to as much as 329 miles in Dual-motor configurations.AdvertisementAdvertisementRivian CEO RJ Scaringe previously noted that relatively few customers selected the Standard battery versions. Most buyers were already opting for the longer-range variants despite the higher purchase price.That purchasing behavior likely made the entry-level models difficult to justify from a manufacturing standpoint. Simplifying production can also reduce complexity and improve efficiency as Rivian expands its lineup.The Focus Is Shifting Toward The R2Photo Courtesy: Autorepublika.The timing of the decision comes as Rivian begins customer deliveries of the R2 crossover. Unlike the premium-focused R1T and R1S, the R2 has been designed to reach a much broader audience.The first R2 available to customers is the Performance model with the Launch Package, which starts at $57,990. Rivian has also confirmed that a version priced around $45,000 is expected to join the lineup next year.AdvertisementAdvertisementWith the R2 taking over as the brand's entry-level product, Rivian appears comfortable moving the R1 family further into the premium segment. Buyers willing to spend around $80,000 will now receive longer-range configurations without needing to upgrade from the base model.For shoppers seeking a lower-cost Rivian, however, the R2 is clearly becoming the company's primary focus going forward.If you want more stories like this, follow Guessing Headlights on Yahoo so you don't miss what's coming next.
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