With the rise of the electric vehicle movement, new EVs like the 2022 Rivian R1S keep emerging. Except that’s the thing. Is there really another SUV quite like the R1S? From its vegan leather interior to the zero-emissions EV motor, this large three-row family SUV is an ideal choice for families concerned about their environmental impact. But we don’t think the Rivian R1S is just for vegans.

“Our quad-motor system improves traction in all conditions, but it really stands out when the weather is at its worst.”

Mason V. Powertrain Engineer | Rivian

The 2022 Rivian R1S

This all-new electric SUV is coming to the market with a range of over 300 miles, according to the Rivian website. Additionally, this new three-row family SUV starts at $70,000. While it’s definitely not a great choice for families on a tighter budget, it does bring a lot to the table for the price point.

The 2022 Rivian R1S is a groundbreaking SUV that enters the market space to compete not only with other electric SUVs, but also some gas powered favorites like the Chevy Tahoe and the Toyota 4Runner. With a three foot fording depth and 100% grade rock crawl capabilities, the R1S is a formidable family option for the adventurous family.

And just because these electric beasts boast a vegan leather interior doesn’t mean the 2022 Rivian R1S will only appeal to vegans. We think that this electric SUV will market well to a wide range of consumers in the over $50 grand price bracket.

Innovative capability

This upcoming electric SUV option handles some of the toughest terrain. A 14-inch ground clearance and three-second 0-60 mph sprint (depending on your choice of tires) is only the beginning. The 2022 Rivian R1S also uses some specialized EV engineering for thermal regulation of its lithium-ion battery electric motor. The motor is designed to work great as hot as 130 degrees Fahrenheit and as cold as 25 below zero degrees Fahrenheit.

It was created to be an adventurous and off-road ready three-row family SUV. However, the R1S is said to drive extremely well on pavement. In fact, Rivian describes the R1S road handle as that “of a sports car.”

While we haven’t gotten the chance to drive one yet, we do know that it seats seven passengers. In addition, the Rivian R1S electric SUV has a range of over 300 miles. Info on additional range options will release soon.

The Rivian R1S electric SUV features

The range is far and the thermal engineering is exciting, yes. But what else makes this an SUV that entices a broad spectrum of interested buyers? For one thing, it’s really cool looking. The headlight design alone is unlike any other three-row family SUV on the market.

Plus, the aluminum alloy and “ultra high-strength” steel combined with carbon fiber makes the frame incredibly strong. Safety is important when you’re shopping for any vehicle. It’s especially so when it comes to buying an SUV to haul the whole family up a snowy mountain for a weekend at the ski resort.

The 2022 Rivian R1S electric SUV has a nice low center of gravity. This is one reason why the handling gets such high praise. In addition, this low center of gravity helps keep the R1S from rolling. Overall, with the Rivian electric SUV you get a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, seriously competitive departure, approach, and breakover angles, and a nice luxurious cabin. In fact, there is a host of reasons this three-row family SUV option isn’t just for vegans.