The 2025 Rivian R1S electric SUV may look similar to its predecessor, but beneath the surface lies a world of innovation. Rivian has reworked its battery and propulsion hardware, resulting in significant improvements in range and efficiency. The R1S and R1T now feature retuned ride and handling, along with quieter cabins, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Key Changes and Features

Rivian Motor Systems

The company has equipped the entire R1 model line with its own oil-cooled, in-house-designed motor systems and inverter tech. This brings a new Tri-motor model with a combined 850 hp and a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds. An upcoming Quad-motor model offers an astonishing 1,025 hp and a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds. New to these versions are Rally and Drift modes, which are a blast in the mud. There's also a specialized Rock Crawl mode and a welcome Conserve mode that switches to front-wheel drive to maximize range.The battery packs are technically new, with capacities of 92.5, 109.4, and 141.5 kwh usable for the Standard, Large, and Max sizes respectively. This translates to an impressive 270 miles with the Standard battery, up to 329 miles with the Large battery, and an impressive 410 miles with the Max battery and the Dual-motor setup. Standard versions use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) prismatic cells, while the rest of the lineup has nickel cobalt aluminum (NCA) cylindrical cells.

Suspension Tuning

This year, Rivian has made major tuning changes to the suspension. It has dialed back some of the bouncier body motion in the softer on-road modes, making the tuning more quietly damped and livable. Even the body structure under the sheet metal has been changed for easier assembly and weight savings. These improvements have resulted in a much-improved, better-driving, and better-riding electric SUV.

Electrical Architecture and Sensing Platform

Rivian has updated and simplified the electrical architecture within these vehicles. It has shifted to a simpler layout with 7 ECUs instead of 17, removing 1.6 miles of wiring in the process. A separate DC-DC converter has been added for lower-power accessories. A completely new sensing platform has been added, featuring 11 cameras, five radar units, and AI algorithms.

Packaging and Lifestyle Features

The packaging of the 2025 Rivian R1S is thoughtful and lifestyle-oriented. It has a low, flat cargo floor, a huge 9.9-cubic-foot frunk, and plenty of small storage spaces. Sturdy materials and details like flashlights integrated in the driver's door add to its appeal.In conclusion, Rivian's updates go beyond traditional engineering. It's not just about improving performance but also about setting the stage for a more efficient and profitable future. These changes will enable millions of American-designed-and-engineered electric trucks to hit the roads, and we can't wait to see them in action.