Rivian removes the most affordable versions of the R1T and R1S from its lineup ahead of the launch of the R2 SUV

Rivian has just made a strategic decision that marks a significant shift in its commercial approach. The American company has quietly removed the most affordable versions of its flagship models from its online configurator: the R1T pickup and the R1S SUV. These are the Dual Standard versions of both models, which combined a dual-motor system with the smallest battery capacity offered by the manufacturer.

This move implies an increase of roughly 7 thousand dollars in the entry price of both vehicles. Before the removal, the R1T Dual Standard started at 72,990 dollars and the R1S at 76,990 dollars. Now, the most affordable option is the R1T Dual at 79,990 dollars and the R1S Dual at 83,990 dollars.

The Dual Standard versions offered an estimated EPA range of 270 miles -about 435 km– and featured an LFP battery pack. Customers seeking greater range can opt for the Dual versions with the higher-capacity battery, which can cover up to 329 miles -530 km- on a single charge. Meanwhile, those for whom price is a decisive factor can opt for the new R2 SUV.

Common sense

This decision by Rivian seems a logical step, considering that the brand’s chief, RJ Scaringe, recently noted that very few customers were choosing the entry-level configurations. In fact, just a few months ago, the company itself had already announced that it was considering gradually withdrawing the Dual Standard versions.

Rivian is thus seeking to improve its margins and prepare the ground for the launch of the highly anticipated new R2 SUV, which will be positioned as the entry point to the American manufacturer’s electric vehicle lineup. The company has already delivered a limited number of units of the new R2 in its Performance version with the Launch Package. The price of this top-of-the-range version starts at 57,990 dollars. A more affordable version will follow later, priced at around 45 thousand dollars.