Rivian Drops R1S and R1T Base Trims After LFP Battery Calibration Issues

Rivian is reportedly discontinuing the base Dual Standard trims of its R1T pickup and R1S SUV after ongoing issues related to lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery calibration.

The decision removes the most affordable variants of the R1 lineup and raises the starting price of both vehicles, while also potentially creating space in the lineup for the upcoming R2.

Rivian phases out R1 Dual Standard trims after battery calibration issues

According to an autoevolution report, Rivian struggled to resolve range estimation issues tied to the LFP battery packs used in the R1T Dual Standard and R1S Dual Standard variants.

LFP batteries offer several advantages, including lower cost and longer cycle life compared with nickel-based chemistries such as NMC or NCA. However, they also present unique technical challenges. The voltage difference between a fully charged and nearly depleted LFP battery is smaller than in nickel-based batteries, which can make it harder for battery management systems to accurately estimate the true state of charge.

As a result, automakers often require periodic calibration, typically charging the battery to 100%, to maintain accurate range estimates.

According to autoevolution, some Rivian owners reported vehicles showing as much as 20% battery remaining before unexpectedly running out of charge, suggesting persistent calibration issues. After attempting to improve the system, Rivian reportedly chose to discontinue the LFP-equipped trims.

The company said the Dual Standard versions of the R1T and R1S will be phased out later this year, though a precise timeline has not been announced.

To clear remaining inventory, Rivian is offering lease deals for the affected models, including a 36-month lease starting at $749 per month with $3,000 off.

Removal of entry trims raises R1 prices and may support R2 positioning

With the base trims being discontinued, the starting prices for Rivian’s R1 vehicles will move higher.

The R1T Dual now begins at $79,990, replacing the R1T Dual Standard that started at $72,990. Similarly, the R1S Dual will start at $83,990, compared with the $76,990 starting price of the outgoing Dual Standard variant.

According to autoevolution, removing the entry-level versions could also help Rivian position its upcoming R2 more strategically within the lineup. Earlier plans suggested a starting price around $45,000, but the automaker is now expected to launch the model with a higher-priced Launch Edition configuration.

By narrowing the pricing gap between the R1 lineup and the upcoming R2, Rivian may reduce internal competition between its vehicles as it prepares to expand production.

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