Rivian has already established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the electric vehicle market, despite only selling its first vehicles in 2022. The company's original quad-motor R1T truck and R1S SUV produced impressive performance figures, including a blistering 835 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. This was followed by an even more significant upgrade for 2026, with the quad-motor models boasting a staggering 1025 hp.
The launch of Rivian's RAD division marks a new era in high-performance electric vehicles, as the company sets its sights on pushing the limits of what is possible. With the division dedicated to developing extreme and highly capable electric vehicles, it's clear that Rivian is committed to expanding its lineup and appealing to enthusiast drivers.
The RAD team has been working behind the scenes since Rivian's inception, initially operating as a skunkworks group before becoming an official member of the company's ecosystem. This move demonstrates Rivian's dedication to building more extreme and capable electric vehicles, which will undoubtedly appeal to fans of high-performance driving.
Rivian's culture is already deeply embedded with the spirit of adventure and competition, as evident in the company's success at events like the Rebelle Rally and Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The R1T even won the Rebelle Rally in 2023, marking a significant milestone for the company's electric vehicles.
The RAD team will use real-world experience from these events to inform features and performance that will be found in future vehicles. This approach ensures that Rivian's high-performance electric vehicles are designed with practicality and usability in mind, making them appealing to a wider range of drivers.
One significant upgrade from the RAD team is the RAD Tuner, which allows owners of 'Gen 2' quad-motor models to develop their own individualized drive modes. This feature includes presets called Desert Rally and Hill Climb, which were developed at the Rebelle Rally and Pikes Peak, respectively.
The RAD Tuner also offers a level of customization that was previously unavailable in Rivian's vehicles. By changing power output, torque bias, stability control intervention, and brake regeneration, owners can tailor their driving experience to suit their needs. This level of flexibility is sure to appeal to enthusiasts who value the art of fine-tuning their vehicle.
The announcement of the RAD division at the 2026 FAT Ice Race in Big Sky, Montana, marked a significant moment for Rivian's high-performance ambitions. The event featured vintage cars, modern performance cars, and even skijoring, which added to the excitement and spectacle of the competition.
While it remains unclear exactly what role Rivian plans RAD will play, it's clear that the company is committed to enthusiast-focused vehicles that expand the horizons of its growing lineup. With the RAD division pushing the limits of performance, Rivian is set to become a major player in the high-performance electric vehicle market.
