The 2023 Rivian R1T Is Already More Popular Than 1 Mainstream Truck
The Rivian R1S is one of the most talked about trucks on the market. This is because not only is it beloved, but it’s growing in popularity. In fact, the 2023 Rivian R1T has already overtaken the Nissan Titan in sales. Additionally, it also has the GMC Canyon in its sights as the next mainstream truck it could surpass.
This is extraordinary, as the idea of an all-electric truck is still not the norm. Most people, especially truck buyers, still trust the old faithful gas-powered options. Here’s a look into why the sales for the Rivian R1T are growing while some more mainstream trucks seem to be in a slight decline.
The 2023 Rivian R1T has a narrow lead over the Nissan Titan so far this year
Vehicle sales go up and down, and there isn’t always a clear reason why. However, the fact that the 2023 Rivian R1T has a lead over the iconic Nissan Titan could signal a changing of the tides. According to GoodCarBadCar, the Nissan Titan has sold 15,407 units for the year, whereas the R1T has moved 16,011.
In terms of year-to-date growth, the Titan has improved 23.37%, while the electric Rivian truck is up 166.85%. While the year-to-date sales are close, the rate at which the Rivian R1S has grown in popularity can’t be ignored.
The 2023 Rivian R1T also beats the Nissan Titian in current month sales. Last month, the all-electric truck sold 2,733 units, while the Nissan sold just 1,619. In the same month last year, the Rivian sold 1,448 trucks, and Nissan sold 420 units of the Titan.
People should also note that the GMC Canyon is right above the Rivian R1T. It has sold 19,351 units so far this year, which is down almost 10% from last year. Looking at last month’s sales, it sold less than the R1T.
The all-electric Rivian truck offers more power
One reason why more buyers might be flocking to the 2023 Rivian R1T is because of its performance. The truck comes standard with two electric motors that combine for a maximum output of 600 horsepower and a torque of 600 lb-ft. This is an all-wheel drive truck.
However, people who want even more power can go for the quad-motor option that makes 835 horsepower and has a torque of 908 lb-ft. Regarding fuel economy, the dual motor version grants a combined average of 73 MPGe.
The Titian uses a 5.6-liter V8 engine with a maximum output of 400 horsepower. Its torque is 413 lb-ft, and the truck has rear and four-wheel drive configurations. Regarding the transmission, it uses a 9-speed automatic. The fuel economy for the Titan is significantly lower than the R1T, as it averages 18 miles per gallon.
In terms of speed, the fastest version of the R1T accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in only 3.3 seconds. However, it takes the Titan between 5.7 and 6.4 seconds for the feat. The R1T is also better at towing, as it can manage up to 11,000 pounds, while the Titan can handle over 9,323 pounds.
The Rivian R1T simply has more to offer
The interior may be another reason more people are currently picking the 2023 Rivian R1T over the Nissan Titan. Both trucks offer comfortable interiors, but the Titan is much less exciting. Of course, it also doesn’t hurt that the Rivian is technically a luxury truck, which means it will automatically be better appointed.
Looking at interior technology, the Rivian has a large, recessed 16-inch touchscreen. However, the 2023 Nissan Titan only has a standard eight-inch unit, with a 9-inch touchscreen being optional. Regarding price, the R1T starts at $73,000, while the Titan costs $40,350.
Overall, both the 2023 Nissan Titan and the Rivian R1T are formidable trucks. However, the Rivian is currently outselling the Nissan, and for good reason. Of course, this may change as vehicle sales go up and down, but it’s also possible that the Rivian R1T might also overtake the GMC Canyon. Does this mean the time when all-electric trucks overtake gas-powered options is near? Only time will tell.
