Rivian's Thunder: Unveiling the 1,000 HP+ R1T and R1S Ascent Variants in 2024

The electric vehicle arena is about to witness a power surge as Rivian reportedly gears up to unleash the Ascent variants of its R1T electric truck and R1S electric SUV in 2024.

The rumblings of this electrifying development came from a Rivian Forums member, who reportedly got tipped by a reliable source. If the whispers turn into roars, the electric vehicle (EV) landscape is in for a tempestuous treat.

The Ascent of Rivian's Powerhouse Duo

The purported Ascent trim isn’t merely about lofty numbers but encapsulates cosmetic allure and aerodynamic finesse. The source spills the beans on the dual motors churning out a staggering 1,000 horsepower, a feat so fierce that the front wheels kissed the skies during testing. This aerial flirtation has Rivian on its toes, tweaking the system to keep the wheels grounded.

A Sneak Peek into the Ascent’s Aesthetic Appeal

The leaked intel hints at blacked-out exterior accents, symbolizing the menacing performance lurking under the hood. While these aesthetic tweaks are yet to be confirmed for production, the mere possibility adds a shade of mystique to the Ascent variants.

Performance Paradox

The quad-motor variants of Rivian R1T and R1S currently flex a robust 835 horsepower, with the dual-motor versions not far behind at 665 horsepower. The speculated leap to over 1,000 horsepower, however, ventures into a realm predominantly navigated by triple-motor configurations, like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance.

Rivian’s In-House Power

Rivian’s transition to its in-house developed dual-motor Enduro drive unit earlier this year marked a significant milestone. The move, parting ways from relying on suppliers like Bosch, reflects Rivian's drive towards better cost management and production control. The EPA filings from June 2023 underline the Enduro drive unit’s improved performance and efficiency, laying a solid groundwork for the speculated Ascent variant's powertrain.

Rivian’s Sales Surge and The Road Ahead

With a whopping 15,000 deliveries in Q3 2023, marking a 136 percent YoY growth, Rivian's voyage is gaining momentum. While the market buzz around the rumored 1,000 HP+ variants could fuel Rivian’s brand allure, the essence of affordability remains crucial for broader scalability.

The horizon of 2024 holds the promise of an electrifying showdown as Rivian’s Ascent variants aim to redefine power paradigms in the EV domain. As the clock ticks towards the unveiling, the automotive world waits with bated breath for Rivian's thunderous ascent to high-performance glory.