The Rivian name entered the public consciousness at the Los Angeles Auto Show last week with the presentation of two all-electric concepts, the R1T pickup and the R1S full-size SUV.
The company’s plans, we now learn, already include a third model. The company’s head RJ Scaringe told Autocar magazine that another Rivian is in development, and that it would be inspired by rally-style cars and be a performance-focused model with an elevated ground clearance.
In terms of output, the numbers being thrown around are 750 hp and 830 lb-ft of torque, which should get the attention of thrill-seeking drivers everywhere.
For the moment, of course, it’s all still confined to the drawing board. Before the new Rivian is ready, there will be the launch of the R1T pickup in 2020, followed a year later by the R1S pickup. No date has been given for the rally-style Rivian. Most likely the company will have to earn some profits from its first two vehicles before it starts moving to production with its third.
While there are clearly still many unknowns when it comes to the future of the small company, it does appear that its brain-trust has been serious and methodical in its approach. RJ Scaringe says that he is prepared to give the rights to the Rivian platform to other manufacturers, and confirms that some have already shown interest. This would help the company generate much-needed revenue as it goes forward with product development.
When the first Rivian vehicles hit the market, consumers will be able to buy outright or lease directly from the company. We should expect to see Rivian quickly ramp up a distribution network, but it does plan to open up sales outlets in certain locations, and re-evaluate based on how well it goes. The firm does believe it will eventually need to grow a network of dealerships in order to provide the right level of customer service.
Clearly the Rivian name will be one to watch. There’s no guarantee yet that it will fulfill its ambitions, but its success would be a big plus for consumers. Their products are highly promising, based on what we know so far.
