Below, we have a video from Alex of the channel Alex on Autos and the software improvements Rivian are planning for the Rivian R1S and the R1T, which will be applicable to towing. Within the video below, Alex also tows a flatbed tipping trailer with a digger/excators on the back (7,600 lbs). In terms of towing efficiency, the Rivian R1S achieved 1.25 miles per kWh (169 miles/full charge).
Table of Contents
Key EV Towing Example Results
- Vehicle: Rivian R1S
- EPA Range: 340 miles
- Max Towing Capacity: 7,700 lbs
- Towing Rig: Trailer/Digger (7,600 lbs)
- Total Usable Battery Capacity: 135 kWh
- Efficiency Towing: 1.25 miles per kWh
- Max Towing Range: 169 miles
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Rivian R1S Towing Notes
At the start of the video, Alex discusses the software updates Rivian are working on, which will improve towing functionality.
Some of the previous Rivian towing tests I’ve reported on have shown the towing range prediction needs some work, so hopefully, that is a part of the update.
In the next section of the video, Alex provides his performance scores for the R1S towing compared to other luxury SUVs over $75,000.
Alex gave the Rivian R1S an A+ for handling, a B for ride quality, a B+ for cabin noise, and an A+ for fuel economy. After all, compared to any ICE vehicle, the R1S is much more efficient.
However, in terms of efficiency/range while towing, Alex was getting a figure of 1.25 miles per kWh. With 135 kWh of usable energy, the max towing range on the R1S would be around 169 miles.
Trailer Towing Notes
The flatbed/tilt trailer used in this test weighs around 3,600 lbs, and then the digger/excavator weighed around 4,000 lbs, for a total weight of around 7,600 lbs.
The load on the back of this trailer would not be the worst-case scenario when it comes to aerodynamic efficiency, as the digger/excavator does not have a large profile fighting the wind.
Weather/Terrain Notes
During the testing that Alex conducted, it appeared to be dry, and while we don’t have any details on the temperature, it appeared to be a reasonably mild/warm day.
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