Rivian Drops Cheapest R1T and R1S Models as Entry Prices Jump by $7,000
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Rivian has quietly removed the most affordable versions of its R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV from its lineup. The company has discontinued the Dual Motor Standard Pack variants for the 2026 model year, making the larger battery pack the new entry level option for both models.
While this change increases the starting price by $7,000, buyers also get a significant boost in driving range.
Rivian Removes Dual Motor Standard Pack Models
The Rivian R1T and R1S equipped with the Dual Motor powertrain and Standard battery pack are no longer available through Rivian’s online configurator. The move was first noticed by InsideEVs and marks the end of the company’s least expensive R1 models.
With the Standard battery pack gone, the Dual Motor Large Pack versions now become the new base models.
2026 Rivian R1 Starting Prices
| Model | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 2026 Rivian R1T Dual Motor Large | $81,885 |
| 2026 Rivian R1S Dual Motor Large | $85,885 |
Both models now cost $7,000 more than the discontinued Dual Motor Standard Pack versions.
Buyers Get More Range for the Higher Price
Although prices have increased, Rivian is also offering considerably more driving range.
| Battery Pack | EPA Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Pack | Up to 270 miles |
| Large Pack | Up to 329 miles |
That is an increase of 59 miles of EPA estimated range compared to the previous Standard Pack models.
For buyers who regularly drive long distances, the additional range may justify the higher purchase price. However, anyone looking for the lowest possible entry price into Rivian ownership now has fewer options.
R2 Launch Creates More Space Between Rivian Models
The timing of this decision is notable because Rivian has started expanding its lineup with the all new R2 SUV.
By removing the lower priced R1 variants, Rivian creates a clearer gap between the premium R1 family and the upcoming R2 lineup. This gives the company more room to position future R2 variants without overlapping too closely with the R1.
For comparison, Rivian says the fully loaded R2 Performance Launch Edition starts at $59,485. It comes with the Long Range battery pack and offers an estimated driving range of up to 330 miles, nearly matching the larger battery R1 models.
The Change Was Expected
The decision did not come as a surprise. Earlier this year, Rivian had indicated that the Dual Motor Standard Pack models would eventually be phased out.
While new factory orders are no longer available, buyers who specifically want the discontinued configuration may still find remaining vehicles through Rivian’s existing inventory until stocks run out.
What This Means for Buyers
The removal of the Standard Pack models changes the entry point into Rivian ownership.
Key highlights:
- Rivian has discontinued the Dual Motor Standard Pack versions of the R1T and R1S.
- Entry prices increase by $7,000 for both models.
- The Large battery pack is now the standard option.
- EPA estimated range rises from 270 miles to as much as 329 miles.
- The pricing gap between the R1 and upcoming R2 lineup becomes much clearer.
For shoppers considering a Rivian, the decision comes down to priorities. The brand’s most affordable R1 models are gone, but every new base R1 now delivers noticeably better driving range. Buyers who still prefer the lower priced Standard Pack models may want to check Rivian’s remaining inventory before those vehicles disappear completely.
Sources & References
Official Sources
- Rivian Official Website
https://rivian.com/
Official website for Rivian’s electric vehicles, pricing, specifications, and latest updates. - Rivian R1T
https://rivian.com/r1t
Official product page with R1T specifications, features, pricing, and range. - Rivian R1S
https://rivian.com/r1s
Official product page for the R1S electric SUV with specifications and configurator. - Rivian R2
https://rivian.com/r2
Official information about Rivian’s upcoming compact electric SUV.
Trusted Automotive Sources
- Car and Driver
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a71734405/2026-rivian-r1t-r1s-dual-standard-canceled/
Detailed report covering Rivian’s decision to discontinue the Dual Motor Standard Pack R1T and R1S. - InsideEVs
https://insideevs.com/
Leading EV news website that first reported the removal of the Dual Motor Standard Pack models from Rivian’s configurator. - Motor1
https://www.motor1.com/rivian/
Covers Rivian news, reviews, pricing updates, and future product announcements.
