Amazon founder Jeff Bezos recently made headlines for his brief trip to space aboard a Blue Origin rocket. While the world watched the launch, car enthusiasts noticed something else: the sleek, all-electric vehicles that transported Bezos and his fellow astronauts to the launch site. They were the Rivian R1T electric pickup truck and the R1S SUV — both products of Rivian, an EV start-up in which Amazon holds more than a 10% stake.
Rivian R1T and R1S: Leading the Electric Pickup Race
Rivian plans to start deliveries of the R1T in September, beating competitors to become the first electric pickup truck on the market. The R1T seats five, while the R1S SUV accommodates seven.
Both models promise:
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300+ miles of electric range
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1-meter wading depth for off-road adventures
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Lockable storage for large gear
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Quad-motor AWD system for maximum traction
Inside, Rivian combines rugged performance with sustainable luxury. The cabins feature vegan leather and sustainably sourced wood, blending eco-consciousness with style.
Performance and Capability
Both vehicles use Rivian’s skateboard platform, which houses the battery pack, drive units, suspension, braking, and thermal systems beneath the cabin floor. This design maximizes interior and cargo space.
With 3,500 Nm of torque per wheel — a staggering 14,000 Nm total — the R1T and R1S accelerate from 0–60 mph in just 3 seconds, and 0–100 mph in under 7 seconds. The R1T also boasts an 11,000-pound towing capacity, putting it in league with heavy-duty trucks.
Charging and Technology
The battery charges to 80% in around 50 minutes using a 160-kW DC fast charger. Inside, drivers get a 12.3-inch central touchscreen for controls and a 15.3-inch configurable digital driver display. Over-the-air updates ensure constant improvements, while detachable Bluetooth speakers in the doors turn any campsite into an open-air concert.
Rivian’s Growing Influence in the EV Market
Rivian recently secured $2.5 billion in funding, led by Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund, Ford Motor Company, and D1 Capital Partners. Since 2019, Rivian has raised over $10.5 billion, signaling strong investor confidence.
With Bezos publicly backing the brand — and using its vehicles for such high-profile moments — Rivian is positioning itself as a serious challenger in the EV market. Competitors like GM, Lucid Motors, and, of course, Tesla will face fierce competition as Rivian rolls out more models.
