Rivian R1T Dual Motor vs Performance Dual Motor: Which Electric Truck is Right for You?

After over a decade spent secretly developing electric adventure vehicles, Rivian burst onto the scene in 2018 with the reveal of its R1T electric pickup truck. Hailed as a potential "Tesla killer," this futuristic truck has created major buzz thanks to its unique styling, bleeding-edge technology and ginormous spec sheet.

Set to begin deliveries in early 2023, Rivian aims to shake up the growing electric truck space with the R1T available in three motor configurations. But should you splurge for the higher-powered Performance Dual Motor or go for the cheaper Dual Motor base model?

In this in-depth guide, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about the Rivian R1T Dual Motor versus Performance Dual Motor, from acceleration and towing to charging times and beyond. Let’s compare these two R1Ts inside and out.

Overview of Rivian

Before diving into truck specs, here’s a quick look at Rivian the company:

• Founded: 2009 by CEO RJ Scaringe
• Headquarters: Irvine, California
• Key Investors: Amazon, Ford Motor Company
• Production Facilities: Normal, Illinois

Rivian made waves when they acquired a massive 2.6-million-square-foot former Mitsubishi car plant in Normal, Illinois to produce their electric adventure vehicles. Custom-built for EVs from the ground up, this facility will soon achieve an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles as Rivian scales up.

Initially the Irvine-based automaker flew under the radar developing electric trucks and SUVs for over seven years without detection. Today, Rivian’s R1T and upcoming R1S electric SUV are two of the most hotly anticipated EVs hitting the market.

Electric Truck Competitors

Of course, Rivian isn’t the only automaker exploring electric pickups:

• Ford F-150 Lightning
• GMC Hummer EV Pickup
• Tesla Cybertruck (Delayed)
• Lordstown Endurance
• Atlis XT Electric Pickup
• Bollinger B2
• Chevrolet Silverado EV (2023)

But when looking at production-ready trucks actually available to order today, the R1T leapfrogs much of the competition with 300+ miles of range, 800+ horsepower variants and extreme off-road talent. Only the sheik Hummer EV rivals Rivian’s specs at this point.

Now let’s examine the R1T’s various motor, battery and trim choices.

Rivian R1T Motor Configurations

The all-electric Rivian R1T will launch with three distinct model options:

Both Dual Motor variants use one motor to power each axle (front and rear). But the Performance model tunes up the power for sportier acceleration.

Meanwhile the Quad Motor R1T adds two additional motors (one per wheel) allowing insane horsepower levels and precision torque vectoring.

Now let’s scrutinize the R1T Dual vs Performance Dual Motor trucks in more detail.

Rivian R1T Dual Motor vs Performance Dual Motor: Specs Compared

Digging deeper, here’s an overview of key specifications for each R1T configuration:

**Fastest charging speed requires 500+ Amp DC fast charging

*Max Pack range projection not yet confirmed by Rivian

As evidenced above, besides the 100 hp/100 lb-ft power bump, both Dual Motor models share virtually identical specs including range, towing capacity, seating room and more.

Charging speeds are rapid as well – up to 140 miles of range added in just 20 minutes leveraging DC fast charging.

Digging deeper, here are some other great features packed into both Dual Motor R1T configurations:

• Standard Driver+ system (hands-free driving aids)
• Off-road upgrades like underbody armor and raised air suspension
• Watertight compartment to store gear and keep it dry
• Built-in slide-out electric camp kitchen with induction cooktop

And both Dual Motor trucks qualify for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit plus state incentives where available.

Key Differences Between Rivian R1T Dual Motor vs Performance Dual Motor

Given the abundant similarities in battery range, interior space and capability, where do these two R1T models differ? Let’s break it down:

Acceleration & Power
The extra juice from the Performance Dual Motor’s additional 100 hp and 100 lb-ft torque slashes the 0-60 mph sprint down to 3.0 seconds flat. That’s sports car quick and on par with a Ferrari or Lambo. The Dual Motor is no slouch at 4.5 seconds to 60 mph – but gearheads will appreciate the improved throttle response from the Performance upgrade.

Ride & Handling
While both models offer adjustable air suspension, the Performance Dual Motor adds performance-tuned dampers and anti-roll bars for tighter cornering and control. Expect a firmer, sportier ride compared to the softer standard suspension tuning on the base Dual Motor.

Braking Power
Upgraded performance brakes shed speed even quicker on the Performance Dual Motor with 15.4” front rotors compared to 14.8” rotors on the Dual Motor.

Exterior Styling
Besides badging, no visible exterior styling changes differentiate Performance models from the base Dual Motor trucks. Both share Rivian’s signature styling including the dynamic “stadium lighting” and in-your-face geometric bodywork.

Audio System
Audiophiles will appreciate the premium Meridian audio system offered standard on Performance Dual Motor trims but unavailable on the base Dual Motor model. Expect richer, room-filling sound with this top-shelf British audio brand.

Price
The R1T Performance Dual Motor does demand about a $10,000 price premium over the base model. However, you’re still getting activated carbon air filtration, vegan leather seats, sustainable cabin materials and more standard across both trucks.

Charging Infrastructure Compatibility

Frequent road trippers will be happy to know the R1T is compatible with a number of nationwide DC fast charging networks, with more coming online each month as infrastructure expands.

As of mid-2022, confirmed R1T-supported charging partners include:

• Electrify America
• EVgo
• ChargePoint
• Volta
• SemaConnect
• EVCS
• Tesla Superchargers (with adapter)

Regardless if you select the standard or Performance Dual Motor, both R1Ts charge at speeds up to 140 miles of range added in just 20 minutes using Level 3 DC fast charging.

Of course, Rivian’s R1T also supports home charging like any EV. Opt for the dual-motor R1T that fits your acceleration needs and budget, knowing you can fill up quickly on electrons when needed.

Dual Motor vs Performance Dual Motor: Which R1T is Right for Me?

If you prioritize value: The base R1T Dual Motor saves over $10,000 compared to the Performance model while offering 98% of the same battery range, cargo space and capability. You still get an insanely quick 0-60 mph time under 5 seconds too!

If you crave acceleration: Gearheads will drool over the Performance Dual Motor’s 3.0-second 0-60 mph sprint and finely-tuned suspension. And no range tradeoffs come with the added power.

If you road trip often: Both R1T motor options deliver 300+ miles per charge to confidently tackle long journeys and make use of the growing DC fast charging infrastructure.

If you tow heavy loads: With 11,000+ lbs of towing capacity on tap, either Dual Motor powertrain hauls boats, Airstreams and equipment with ease.

No matter which Rivian R1T dual motor you pick, both deliver an unrivaled blend of extreme capability, ample range and forward-thinking technology. You really can‘t go wrong! Shoppers simply need to decide if the Performance model’s power upgrades warrant its higher asking price for their needs.

For raw acceleration and driving enjoyment, the Performance Dual Motor edges ahead. But value-focused truck shoppers will feel well-served by the base R1T Dual Motor model with 600 spirited horsepower on tap.

Either way, the electric adventure awaits this year!