Karmactive Team
Rivian has taken its electric trucks to new terrain with the California Dune Edition of its R1T pickup and R1S SUV. These unique models offer something new to the electric vehicles – serious off- capability paired with desert-inspired design.
The Power You Need, When You Need It
Think of the power in these vehicles as having three engines working together instead of one. The three electric motors produce 850 horsepower—enough muscle to match some of the most powerful sports cars available today. In ordinary terms, this means the truck and SUV can go from a complete stop to highway speed in just 2.9 seconds. The three-motor system generates 1,103 pound-feet of torque, providing substantial power for various driving conditions.
When it comes to driving distance, these vehicles can travel 329 miles on a single charge with their off-road equipment installed. This range offers significant driving capability for both daily use and outdoor adventures.
A key feature for desert adventurers is the new “Soft Sand” driving mode. This special setting adjusts how the vehicle behaves on loose sand, making driving easier on challenging desert terrain. It’s like having an expert off-road driver helping you navigate tricky conditions.
Built for Real-World Adventure
The exterior wears a new paint colour called California Dune, which takes its cues from actual desert landscapes in Southern California. But the design isn’t just for looks – these vehicles come ready for serious off-road use. The All-Terrain package, normally costing $3,700 extra, comes standard. This includes tough 20-inch wheels (available in either dark finish or matching California Dune paint), a spare tyre, and extra protection underneath the vehicle to guard against rocks and rough terrain.
Inside, practicality meets comfort. The two-tone interior uses colours called Sandstone and Black Mountain, but more importantly, it features specially designed flooring that’s easy to clean. Think of it like having outdoor furniture that looks good but can handle rough use.
Smart Features for Tough Situations
Each vehicle comes with MAXTRAX recovery boards mounted on the roof. These are emergency escape tools for your vehicle if it gets stuck in deep sand. The R1T pickup adds a powered tonneau cover for the truck bed, featuring a new design for 2025.
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Cost and Availability
The R1T pickup starts at $99,900, while the R1S SUV begins at $105,900. These prices include all the off-road equipment and the powerful three-motor system. While this puts them in the premium vehicle category, you’re getting both a capable off-roader and a zero-emission vehicle in one package.
Want to See Them in Person?
If you’re interested in seeing these vehicles up close, Rivian will show them at the SXSW festival in Austin, Texas (March 7-15). They’ll be at Rivian’s Electric Roadhouse display, with more locations planned across the country.
Beyond the Numbers
Jeff Hammoud, Rivian’s Chief Design Officer, explains these vehicles strike a balance between being tough enough for serious off-road use and maintaining the refined feel expected in a premium vehicle. This matters because it adds versatility to the electric vehicle segment.
What Makes This Different
Rivian’s first special edition shows how electric vehicles can be specialized for specific uses. The California Dune Edition brings together off-road capability with electric power. The electric powertrain, combined with the specialized Soft Sand mode and off-road equipment, offers a new approach to desert driving.
The vehicles combine specialized off-road features with electric technology. They’re designed to handle challenging terrain while offering the environmental benefits of electric power, marking a new direction in the evolution of off-road vehicles.
