Rivian keeps on truckin’ for electric transport

The low carbon vehicle is scheduled for release in 2020

Rivian R1T

Electric vehicle (EV) producer Rivian has announced a new clean pickup truck it hopes will hit the market in 2020.

The firm says the five-seat R1T will use an electric motor on each wheel to propel it to 60mph in just three seconds. reaching 100mph in under seven seconds – not bad for a vehicle weighing 2.6 tonnes and capable of towing nearly double that.

The EV will have three battery options: 180kWh (300 mile range), 135kWh (400 mile range) and 105kWh (230 mile range). The first two sizes will be available at launch with the largest mode to be offered six months later.

Rivian says the truck will use an algorithm to adapt to different driving styles to better optimise its charge, as well as a range of cameras, radar, ultrasonic technology and GPS to allow for ‘Level Three’ autonomous driving.

The R1T will have its battery, drive units, suspension, braking and thermal system mounted below the height of each wheel. creating a spacious interior and low centre of gravity.

It will be priced upwards of $69,000 (£54,000).

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