US based EV manufacturer Rivian has gone all in one the overland/touring market with their soon to be released R1T. Combined with their optional Adventure Gear range they’re aiming at a serious factory option for off-road adventurers.
While they offer many welcomed features like on-board air-supply and extensive power options the storage solutions are what caught our attention. Filling the ‘gear tunnel’ as Rivian have dubbed it, a full width induction kitchen slides out behind the rear doors. Including a 15L water tank and built-in sink the all-electric kitchen is an indicator of the kind of gear we can expect from manufacturers moving forward.
Other options include a roof top tent with mounting rails, tyre inflation kit, recovery kit and something Rivian are calling their ‘Field kit’. Essentially a remote first aid kit it includes everything from first aid guides to survival gear such as filtration straws and rescue blankets. It’s a clear indication they understand the market. Paired with the optional bash plates, tow hooks, and larger all-terrain tyres it’s an appealing prospect.
Going through their build calculator our first option was the 400 mile battery pack giving an Australian range of 640km. Their wall charger promises to give full capacity with 16hrs of charge time. A super charger network should assist with faster charge times on road trips.
As it stands many fuel stops in the outback are more than 500km apart. Consider then that they may not be places you want to park for 16hrs while you recharge. As technology advances we should see range and charge time improvements. Is the future EV? We’re not sure yet, but it’s looking good!
Have your own slide out kitchen with ARB
See Ford’s Rivian competitor
