This would be the brand’s fourth model, possibly called R1X
This model would be a performance SUV with up to 1,200 horsepower
It would compete with the Jeep Wrangler off-road and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo on pavement
Rivian is still in the process of ramping up the production of its first two models but it is already working on a new vehicle that could arrive as soon as next year.
In addition to the current R1S, R1T, and EDV van, Rivian wants to add a number of products to its lineup in order to better compete with legacy automakers and Tesla.
The company already revealed plans for new vehicles based on an upcoming smaller platform that will be called R2, but these models will be beaten to market by the R1X.
The R1X will be a rally-inspired performance SUV that aims to compete with the Jeep Wrangler and Land Rover Defender in terms of off-road capability, but also against the Porsche Cayenne Turbo in terms of speed and performance.
As its name suggests, the R1X will be built on the same platform as the R1T and the R1S, which explains why it will be ready to launch much sooner than the R2 family of products.
This model hasn’t been shown yet, so it is difficult to know what it will look like, but there are some clues. Indeed, the R1X should ride on a shortened version of the R1 platform, which means that it will only have two rows of seats and possibly a coupe-like roofline.
Under the skin, this model will not be a copy of the brand’s current models either since it is expected to be powered by four of the new motors that will be part of the upcoming twin motor setup on the R1Tand R1S.
These motors are more powerful than the ones currently used in Rivian vehicles, which should allow the R1X to have close to 1,200 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque.
Rumours say this model should be ready to hit the market towards the end of 2023. Until then, Rivian will likely release more details and the first pictures of this model in the coming months.
