Rivian is currently testing multiple R1 electric vehicles in extreme cold conditions in Fairbanks, Alaska. The company is making significant modifications to the R1 lineup for the 2024 refresh, which is expected to begin deliveries later this year. Although there is no need to hide these changes, Rivian has chosen to camouflage the prototypes during testing.
Car manufacturers often use wraps to deceive onlookers and keep design changes a secret until the last moment. Sometimes, they cleverly incorporate elements from existing models to further confuse observers. However, camouflage can also be a way to attract attention.
This trend was seen with the Tesla Cybertruck, where the camo wraps were not meant to conceal anything. Eventually, this became a lucrative business, and now it is rare to see a customer Cybertruck without a wrapped body. Rivian’s decision to wrap the R1S and R1T vehicles in Alaska is similar to what Tesla did. There are indications that the refreshed R1T and R1S will have minor design changes.
One noticeable change is the front of the vehicles, where the camo covers the headlights and light bar almost entirely. This suggests that Rivian may have addressed the issue of snow and ice accumulation on the headlights. Currently, the headlights allow snow and ice to build up, and the cold LED light cannot melt them like halogen headlights can. This requires drivers to frequently stop and clean the headlights.
Apart from design modifications, the cold-weather testing in Alaska may also serve to fine-tune the modified drivetrain configuration. The refreshed R1 lineup is expected to feature an improved version of the Enduro motors and an LFP battery option to make the trucks more affordable. Testing these components in extreme cold will provide valuable insights into their performance for customers living in northern regions. Additionally, the inclusion of a heat pump is another reason for testing in colder climates.
There have been rumors that Rivian is completely revamping the R1 vehicle architecture. The company aims to introduce a new type of battery that is easier to manufacture and significantly reduces costs. This suggests the possibility of a structural battery pack. Rivian also plans to update the network architecture, which will result in a 60% reduction in electronic control units (ECUs) and a 25% decrease in wiring harness length.
Recently, camouflaged Rivian prototypes were spotted near Fairbanks, Alaska, in frigid temperatures of -25°F. It remains a mystery what exactly Rivian is testing with these vehicles.
