By the numbers alone, the all-electric Rivian R1T should be a great truck, with 800 hp, a 0-60 time of 3 seconds, and a 300+ mile range. But in Doug DeMuro’s newest video, which is quite possibly the most thorough review of the pickup yet, it proves to be the most interesting entry in the segment for many more reasons.
Starting with the exterior, the truck uses clever design to overcome its squared-off styling and achieve as impressive figures as it does. The body is actually strategically smooth in places you wouldn’t expect, and there are numerous hidden vents and spoilers, all in the name of aerodynamic efficiency. That being said, it’s also able to achieve such a range thanks to a truly massive 135 kWh battery.
One of the other great things about the R1T’s exterior is the gear tunnel. At this point, everything there is to be said about this feature already has been, but it’s still worth mentioning. The lockable tunnel between the cabin and the bed spans the full width of the truck, and can accommodate not only all kinds of cargo, but also an optional kitchen with a 2-burner stove. Additionally, the doors of the gear tunnel contain extra storage compartments and can support the weight of people or objects up to 250 lbs (113 kg). And if that wasn’t enough, in terms of other storage the R1T also has a massive frunk as well as a 4-foot bed (7 feet with the tailgate open) with a locking power tonneau cover, an air compressor, outlets, and a full-size spare tire.
Moving to the interior, DeMuro notes how it really doesn’t feel like an automaker’s first attempt. Quite the opposite actually, at least in terms of quality and design. And like the exterior, it too also has its fair share of quirks, some of which include a lantern/Bluetooth speaker combo that charges in the center console and flashlights in the doors like Rolls-Royce‘s umbrellas. But being an EV in 2021, for better or for worse, this truck has a lot of screens. Granted, all the most frequently-used features are constantly and easily accessible, but it would be nice to see a few buttons in what is marketed as something of a workhorse vehicle.
As for the driving experience, the R1T comes off as a jack of all trades, master of none. But for those not familiar, the full version of that saying goes: “a jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one,” and that perfectly describes the R1T’s character. It’s pitched as so many different things—luxurious yet utilitarian, comfortable yet capable, solid-handling yet off-road focused—and while it’s not necessarily the absolute best at any of them, it does excel at all of them.
In the end, the R1T manages to strike the perfect balance between gimmicky electric pickups like the Tesla Cybertruck and run-of the mill EV trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning, and for that reason it will likely sell better than many were expecting.
Keyword: The All-Electric Rivian R1T Is A Game Changer For The Pickup Truck Market