The Rivian R1T has quickly captured attention in the electric vehicle market, lauded for its cutting-edge technology, practicality, and impressive performance, especially for a pickup truck. While its 11,000 lbs towing capacity is frequently cited as a standout feature, the crucial question for many potential owners remains: how does utilizing the Rivian R1T towing capacity affect its range?
Recent real-world tests offer valuable insights into this aspect. All-Electric Family, a Rivian R1T owner, conducted a 500-mile road trip towing a substantial 7,000 lbs Airstream trailer. During the initial phase of their journey, the Rivian R1T’s energy consumption was recorded between 1.02 and 1.07 miles per kWh. Given the R1T’s 135 kWh battery pack, this translates to a towing range of approximately 137 to 144 miles on a single charge when hauling a significant load like the 7,000 lbs Airstream.
These figures suggest that when maximizing the Rivian R1T towing capacity with a heavy load, drivers can expect around 45% of its EPA-estimated 314-mile range. Considering the substantial weight being towed, this level of range retention is noteworthy. Further into their trip, the family encountered a mountain incline. The Rivian R1T demonstrated its capability by effortlessly managing the steep ascent while still towing the Airstream. However, as anticipated, this exertion further impacted the range. Energy consumption increased to 0.66 miles per kWh, consequently reducing the projected range to just under 90 miles for this mountainous segment.
Throughout their 500-mile towing adventure, All-Electric Family made five charging stops, incurring a total charging cost of $76.52. This real-world test provides valuable data for anyone considering utilizing the Rivian R1T towing capacity for long-distance travel. While the Rivian R1T towing capacity is undeniably impressive, understanding its influence on range is crucial for effective trip planning and managing expectations for electric vehicle towing.
