Rivian (NASDAQ: RIVN) currently produces two electric vehicles: a full-size pickup truck and a full-size family SUV. Both electric models received top-tier reviews for their capabilities, thanks to ground clearance, design and powerful electric motors. Now, the American electric vehicle manufacturer and automotive technology company is unleashing the most powerful version of the R1 truck and SUV yet, the 2026 Quad.
Rivian R1 Quad models use four electric motors to transfer power to move the wheels of the vehicles. A quad-motor all-wheel drive system means more horsepower and acceleration times almost too quick to believe.
USA TODAY got up close and personal with the R1T Quad electric pickup truck, and we can confirm it’s just as mind-blowing on the road as it is on paper.
The 2026 Rivian R1 Quad is insanely quick
2026 Rivian R1 Quad models rocket from 0-60 miles per hour in around 2.5 seconds, making these EVs some of the quickest production vehicles ever made. For context, the 2025 Lamborghini Urus accelerates from 0-60 miles per hour in around 3.1 seconds, according to Car and Driver. Rivian R1 Quad trucks and SUVs are quicker than many supercars, more affordable, and more practical in terms of spaciousness and capability.
The R1T Quad and R1S Quad can do a quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds. The EVs produce a massive 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 pound-feet of torque. Each of the four motors are oil-cooled and individually controlled. R1 Quad models boast up to 400 miles of driving range (in Conserve Mode).
How much does the 2026 Rivian R1 Quad cost?
Rivian’s R1S Quad Launch Edition electric SUV starts at $125,990. The regular version of the 2026 Rivian R1S Quad starts at $121,990.
The new 2026 Rivian R1T Launch Edition starts at $119,990. The regular version of the R1T Quad starts at $115,990. Rivian also charges a fee of $1,895 for destination and freight in the United States.
What sets the 2026 Rivian R1 Quad apart from competitors?
USA TODAY interviewed Rivian’s Chief Design Officer, Jeff Hammoud, to find out what makes Rivian R1 Quad electric trucks and SUVs different from the competition.
“Our brand ethos. In terms of being able to provide a premium experience that’s still inviting.”, said Hammoud.
When asked what design challenges the team faced when developing the latest Rivian Quad models, Rivian’s Chief Design Officer answered, “We asked ourselves, how do you make the R1 feel like a six-figure car that you won’t be afraid to off-road in?”
After testing the Rivian R1T Quad, I determined that it’s every bit as capable as advertised. Rivian’s latest electric vehicle drives like a sports car, but offers the ground clearance (nearly 15.0 inches) and design of a true off-road vehicle without sacrificing any luxury materials or tech for capability.
Hammoud noted that the EVs “continue to improve over time” thanks to over-the-air software updates. Additionally, there are plenty of ways to customize the R1 to your individual wants and needs, including creating an entire driver profile for your vehicle and even specific drive modes. The new Rivian R1 Quad is “software-defined,” incorporating plenty of futuristic technology that elevates your driving experience. Rivian’s latest EV pushes the envelope both from an engineering and design perspective.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2026 Rivian R1 Quad is one of quickest electric vehicles. Here’s why
