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Watch Slate Auto's tallest employee try to fit into the tiny Bezos-backed truck
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Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, July 29th 2025 at 19:25 GMT by USA TODAY🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Slate Auto's electric truck is set to be affordable and smaller than most production pickup trucks. A tall Slate employee shows that the EV's cabin space could surprise car buyers.
Unveiling the Rivian R1T: What to Know About the Bezos-Backed Electric Truck Revolutionizing Size and Performance
In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), few names generate as much buzz as Rivian, the innovative automaker backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. At the heart of their lineup is the R1T, an all-electric pickup truck that's not just challenging traditional giants like Ford and Chevrolet but redefining what a truck can be in terms of size, capability, and sustainability. As we look toward 2025 and beyond, the R1T stands out for its unique blend of rugged utility, cutting-edge technology, and eco-friendly design. This summary delves deep into the key aspects of the Rivian R1T, exploring its dimensions, performance specs, innovative features, market positioning, and the broader implications of Bezos's investment in this EV pioneer.
First, let's talk size – a critical factor for any truck enthusiast. The Rivian R1T measures approximately 217.1 inches in length, 81.8 inches in width (without mirrors), and 78.3 inches in height, making it a full-size pickup that competes directly with models like the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Tesla Cybertruck. However, what sets the R1T apart is its thoughtful engineering that balances imposing stature with maneuverability. With a wheelbase of 135.8 inches, it offers a spacious cabin and bed while maintaining a relatively tight turning radius of about 44.9 feet, which is impressive for a vehicle of this class. The truck bed itself is 4.5 feet long with the tailgate up, extending to over 7 feet with it down, and it includes innovative storage solutions like the Gear Tunnel – a pass-through compartment between the cab and bed that can hold items up to 11 feet long. This design ingenuity allows the R1T to feel both massive and practical, catering to users who need to haul gear for adventures without sacrificing urban drivability.
Under the hood – or rather, under the chassis – the R1T packs serious power. It comes in various configurations, with the base dual-motor all-wheel-drive model delivering 600 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in just 4.5 seconds. For those seeking more thrill, the quad-motor version ups the ante to a staggering 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque, slashing acceleration to 3 seconds flat. This performance isn't just for show; it's backed by real-world towing and payload capacities. The R1T can tow up to 11,000 pounds and carry a payload of 1,764 pounds, making it a legitimate workhorse. Battery options range from a standard 105 kWh pack offering about 270 miles of range to a larger 135 kWh "Max" pack that pushes the EPA-estimated range to over 400 miles. Rivian has also engineered the truck with off-road prowess in mind, featuring up to 14.9 inches of ground clearance, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and advanced suspension systems like adaptive air suspension that can adjust ride height on the fly.
One of the most talked-about aspects of the R1T is its backing from Jeff Bezos through Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund. Bezos, known for his forward-thinking investments, poured $700 million into Rivian in 2019 as part of a $2.5 billion funding round, followed by additional investments. This isn't just financial support; it's strategic. Amazon has ordered 100,000 electric delivery vans from Rivian, signaling a massive vote of confidence in the company's technology. For the R1T specifically, this backing has accelerated development, allowing Rivian to integrate Amazon's tech ecosystem subtly. Features like over-the-air software updates, inspired by Tesla but enhanced with Amazon's cloud capabilities, keep the truck evolving post-purchase. The infotainment system, powered by a 15.6-inch touchscreen, supports voice commands that could potentially tie into Alexa, though Rivian maintains its independence.
Beyond specs, the R1T emphasizes adventure and lifestyle integration. Rivian's "Adventure Gear" options include built-in air compressors for inflating tires or gear, a portable camp kitchen that slides out from the Gear Tunnel, and even a rooftop tent setup. The interior is a masterclass in modern luxury, with vegan leather seats, a panoramic glass roof, and a driver-centric cockpit featuring a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Safety is paramount, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and Rivian's Driver+ semi-autonomous system, which handles highway driving with lane-keeping and traffic-aware cruise control. For off-road enthusiasts, modes like Rock Crawl, Drift, and Rally provide tailored power distribution and suspension settings, turning the R1T into a versatile beast capable of tackling everything from desert dunes to snowy trails.
Pricing for the R1T starts at around $73,000 for the base Explore trim, climbing to over $100,000 for fully loaded Adventure or Launch Edition models. This positions it as a premium offering, but Rivian sweetens the deal with federal tax credits of up to $7,500 under the Inflation Reduction Act, provided buyers meet income and vehicle price caps. Compared to competitors, the R1T often edges out in range and off-road capability; for instance, while the Cybertruck boasts futuristic design, the R1T's traditional truck aesthetics appeal to a broader audience. Production ramp-up has been a focus, with Rivian's Illinois factory aiming to produce tens of thousands of units annually, though supply chain issues have caused delays in the past.
The broader impact of the Bezos-backed Rivian extends to the EV market's shift toward sustainable transportation. By focusing on trucks – a segment responsible for significant emissions in the U.S. – Rivian is addressing a key environmental challenge. The R1T's battery is designed for longevity, with Rivian promising over 300,000 miles of life, and the company is investing in recycling programs. Moreover, Bezos's involvement underscores a trend where tech moguls are driving automotive innovation. Amazon's stake not only funds Rivian but also integrates EVs into logistics, potentially reducing carbon footprints in e-commerce.
Looking ahead to 2025, Rivian plans expansions like the smaller R2 SUV and R3 crossover, but the R1T remains the flagship. Updates could include enhanced battery tech for even greater range, improved charging speeds (it already supports up to 210 kW DC fast charging), and more autonomous features. Challenges persist, such as competition from established players and the need for widespread charging infrastructure, but Rivian's momentum is undeniable.
In essence, the Rivian R1T isn't just a truck; it's a statement on the future of mobility. Its size strikes a perfect balance between brawn and brains, powered by innovative engineering and bolstered by visionary backing from Bezos. For consumers eyeing an EV truck, the R1T offers a compelling mix of performance, utility, and sustainability that could very well redefine the segment. As electric pickups gain traction, Rivian's entry proves that going green doesn't mean compromising on capability – it means elevating it to new heights.
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[ https://www.usatoday.com/story/cars/shopping/evs/2025/07/18/slate-truck-size-what-to-know-bezos-backed-ev/85259061007/ ]