Rivian’s Gen-2 Quad-Motor R1T and R1S: Supercar-Speed, Off-Road Domination, and EV Innovation Redefined
As electric vehicle (EV) technology continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, automakers are constantly pushing the boundaries of performance, range, and capability. Among the standout names making waves in the industry is Rivian, an American EV manufacturer best known for blending adventurous utility with innovative electric powertrains. Rivian’s second-generation R1T (pickup) and R1S (SUV) have recently been revealed with a massive upgrade: a Quad-Motor configuration that brings these utility vehicles into the realm of supercar performance.
With a combined 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 lb-ft of torque, Rivian’s Gen-2 Quad-Motor EVs are not just fast—they are redefining what it means to be a high-performance electric SUV or pickup. From conquering trails with surgical precision to executing a mind-bending “kick turn” maneuver, Rivian’s latest engineering marvels have turned heads across the EV community. And while these features come at a premium price point, they raise the bar for what EVs can achieve—on-road, off-road, and everything in between.
The Evolution of Rivian’s Powertrain: Quad-Motor Excellence
The most significant mechanical advancement in Rivian’s Gen-2 R1 lineup is the addition of individual electric motors at all four wheels. This Quad-Motor layout allows Rivian to control torque delivery to each wheel independently, offering exceptional traction, cornering agility, and driving dynamics. Where traditional all-wheel-drive vehicles depend on mechanical differentials, Rivian’s setup uses real-time software to manage power distribution, making reactions instantaneous and highly efficient.
The previous generation of Rivian vehicles already impressed with their performance and off-road capabilities, but this new configuration takes things even further. The R1T Quad-Motor can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, while the R1S achieves it in 2.6 seconds—numbers more commonly associated with hypercars like the Bugatti Chiron or Tesla Model S Plaid. However, unlike those performance-focused sedans, Rivian’s R1 vehicles are also built to handle rugged terrain and heavy payloads, making them a unique breed in the EV world.
RAD Tuner and Custom Drive Modes: Personalized Performance
To accompany the powerful Quad-Motor system, Rivian has introduced RAD Tuner, a comprehensive drive mode customization interface that allows drivers to fine-tune their vehicle’s performance. With RAD Tuner, users can adjust parameters such as throttle response, ride height, brake feel, and steering weight. These settings can be saved into multiple drive profiles, enabling seamless transitions between city driving, off-road excursions, or track-day performance.
This personalization gives owners unprecedented control over how their vehicle responds, allowing them to tailor the experience to specific terrain or driver preference. Whether you’re navigating slippery slopes or launching from a red light, the R1’s performance can be dialed in to your liking with the touch of a button.
Off-Road Supremacy: Tackling Trails with Precision
Rivian has always marketed its vehicles as “adventure-ready,” and the Gen-2 Quad-Motor powertrain reinforces this identity. One of the biggest advantages of the Quad-Motor setup is precise torque vectoring. For off-road enthusiasts, this means the R1T and R1S can send exactly the right amount of torque to each wheel to maintain grip on uneven surfaces, climb over obstacles, or maneuver through tight trails.
During off-road demonstrations, the vehicles navigated rocky ascents and uneven paths with ease, even in the hands of drivers with no off-road experience. Thanks to real-time adjustments in power delivery, the R1s could crawl over boulders, dig through sand, and descend steep grades with almost no slippage or instability. Even more impressive is the fact that this technology operates almost invisibly, allowing the driver to focus on steering while the software manages the complex task of wheel control.
Kick Turn: A Wild New Way to Maneuver
One of the most talked-about features of the new Rivian Quad-Motor vehicles is the Kick Turn—an evolution of the much-anticipated but never-implemented “Tank Turn.” Kick Turn enables the vehicle to pivot in place or nearly so, using the Quad-Motor layout to spin the car around its central axis.
This maneuver is especially useful in off-road environments, where turning radius is limited, or in tight, narrow passages like forest trails. The system works by sending opposing torque to each side of the vehicle, essentially “kicking” the vehicle in the desired direction. It’s not just a flashy feature for YouTube videos; it’s a genuinely useful tool for those who frequently tackle rugged terrain.
Chart: Rivian R1T & R1S Gen-2 Quad-Motor Key Specs
| Feature | R1T Quad-Motor | R1S Quad-Motor |
| Horsepower | 1,025 hp | 1,025 hp |
| Torque | 1,198 lb-ft | 1,198 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph Time | 2.5 seconds | 2.6 seconds |
| Estimated Range (Max Pack) | ~410 miles | ~400 miles |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 11,000 lbs | Up to 7,700 lbs |
| Ground Clearance | Up to 14.9 inches (adjustable) | Up to 14.9 inches (adjustable) |
| Drive Modes | Custom via RAD Tuner | Custom via RAD Tuner |
| Starting Price | $115,990 | $121,990 |
Interior Innovation and Autonomous Features
Beyond performance, Rivian has also refined the interior experience of the Gen-2 R1 lineup. Both the R1T and R1S feature a premium minimalist interior design, highlighted by sustainable materials, panoramic glass roofs, and large digital displays. The center touchscreen controls virtually every aspect of the vehicle, from climate and audio to navigation and drive mode customization.
More notably, Rivian has begun integrating hardware for “Autonomy Platform+”, a future-ready driver assistance system designed to support Level 3 autonomy. Although this system is still under development, the presence of multiple sensors, cameras, and radar systems on the new R1 models suggests that Rivian is preparing for a self-driving future.
Pricing and Market Position
Rivian’s Quad-Motor offerings sit at the high end of the EV spectrum, both in terms of capability and cost. The R1T Quad-Motor starts at $115,990, while the R1S version begins at $121,990. These prices place them in direct competition with premium EVs like the Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast, GMC Hummer EV, and Lucid Gravity. However, Rivian’s unique combination of off-road prowess, supercar performance, and luxury interior refinement sets it apart.
For those looking for similar performance at a lower price, Rivian continues to offer Dual- and Tri-Motor configurations at more accessible pricing. Yet, for the enthusiast seeking the ultimate electric off-roader, the Quad-Motor models are unmatched.
Rivian’s Vision and the Future of Performance EVs
The Gen-2 R1T and R1S are not just flagship models—they are proof of concept for what’s possible in an electric adventure vehicle. Rivian has long positioned itself as more than just a carmaker. With plans for the smaller R2 and R3 models, Rivian’s long-term goal is to scale its advanced EV technologies to more affordable price points, expanding the appeal of electric adventure vehicles to a broader audience.
The Quad-Motor platform, RAD Tuner, Kick Turn, and Autonomy Platform+ are just glimpses of how Rivian plans to build its brand identity as a trailblazer—not only in electric performance but also in personalization and utility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the difference between Rivian’s Quad-Motor and Dual-Motor models?
The Quad-Motor system delivers power to each wheel individually, allowing for superior handling, faster acceleration, and advanced off-road capability. Dual-Motor setups power only the front and rear axles.
Q2. How fast is the Rivian R1T or R1S Quad-Motor?
The R1T reaches 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds, while the R1S takes 2.6 seconds—matching the speed of many high-end supercars.
Q3. Is the Kick Turn feature available on all Rivian models?
Currently, Kick Turn is exclusive to the Quad-Motor configuration due to its need for independent wheel torque control.
Q4. What kind of range can I expect from the Quad-Motor R1 vehicles?
With the Max battery pack, the R1T offers around 410 miles of range, while the R1S provides approximately 400 miles under ideal conditions.
Q5. Are the Gen-2 Rivian models eligible for EV tax credits?
Due to their price exceeding the federal threshold, Quad-Motor versions do not currently qualify for U.S. federal EV tax credits. However, other configurations may be eligible depending on specifications.