Rivian is reducing power claims, warranty on dual-motor models

31 July 2023

Driving into the limelight with their all-electric off-road vehicles, the R1S and R1T, Rivian has managed to take the EV market by storm. But as we ride further into the electric future, a few speed bumps have emerged. Notably, Rivian has recently adjusted the power outputs of its entry-level dual-motor vehicles, leaving some potential buyers scratching their heads.

The automaker has reduced the horsepower specification for its base model from 600 hp to 533 hp, as evident by Rivian's online configurator. This is a significant dip, yet the company insists the 0-60 mph performance of 4.5 seconds remains unaffected. The high-performance dual-motor variant hasn't dodged the adjustment either, seeing its horsepower knocked down from 700 to 665. This has led many to wonder whether this is an actual power cut or simply a revised estimate based on new data.

Speaking of data, leaked EPA documents suggest that the dual-motor model equipped with a large battery can stretch up to 336 miles on a single charge. However, it's not just about the range for Rivian buyers, who often prioritize off-road capabilities over straight-line speed. Yet, a power discrepancy can muddy the waters, and we're still waiting for Rivian to wipe the windshield clean on this matter.

On the other side of the coin, Rivian has also sliced a year off its basic warranty for dual-motor models, now offering four years or 50,000 miles instead of the previous five-year term. This may seem like a step backward, especially when compared to the generous five-year warranty for its quad-motor counterparts. However, let's not forget that four-year warranties are pretty standard for high-end vehicles like Tesla, Polestar, BMW, and Mercedes.

While it's easy to critique Rivian for this double whammy of power and warranty reductions, it's important to remember that Rivian is still a relatively new player in the market. As they navigate the challenging waters of the EV market, tweaks and adjustments are par for the course.

Both the R1S and R1T come equipped with Rivian's in-house-developed Enduro electric motors, which require fewer semiconductor chips than their Bosch predecessors. This not only saves Rivian some change but also aids in power semiconductor supply, an industry sore spot. The Enduro motors' production is currently on schedule, according to Rivian CFO Claire McDonough.

Even with the changes, Rivian's vehicles are still quite enticing. They offer an alluring mix of range, power, off-road capability, and luxury. Sure, there are now some questions surrounding power outputs and warranties, but the overall package is still appealing. It's crucial to remember that buying an EV isn't just about 0-60 times or warranty lengths - it's about embracing the future.

So, power play or slip-up? We'll let you decide. Just remember that with every new venture, there are bound to be adjustments. While these changes may appear significant, they're just minor bumps on the road to the future.

Via 1 | Via 2