As an EV enthusiast, you likely already know the basics – the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV and 2022 Rivian R1T are two of the most anticipated electric pickup trucks from major automakers. With 500+ horsepower, 300+ miles of range and room for up to 5 adults, these zero-emission trucks promise workhorse utility with high-tech style.
But peeking under the sheet metal reveals meaningful differences in pricing, performance benchmarks and ideal use cases to consider given your needs. Read on for an in-depth data-backed comparison across eight categories – from cargo configurations to driver-assist capabilities and ownership considerations.
Overview of the Silverado EV and R1T Specs
Before jumping into the details, here‘s a high-level view of how these flagship trucks stack up:
|| Chevy Silverado EV | Rivian R1T |
|-|——————|—————|
|Price Range | $39,900-$100K+ | $73K-$97K |
|Available Trims | WT, RST, Fleet models | Standard, Large, Max battery; Dual/Quad motor |
|Range | 400+ miles | 260-400 miles |
|Horsepower | 664 (WT), 754 (RST) | 600-835 hp |
|Tow Rating | 8,000-20,000 lbs | 11,000-20,000 lbs |
In short – the Silverado EV brings affordable work-focused options with ample capability to convert traditional truck buyers, while the R1T pioneers a more adventure-oriented premium space.
Let‘s analyze how these first-of-their-kind trucks measure up by the numbers to find the best fit.
Pricing and Production: Mass Market vs Niche Entrant
Cost and availability ultimately play a major role in purchase decisions – so how do the MSRP, incentives and order timing shake out?
Chevy will offer the Silverado EV work truck from $39,900 plus delivery fees, compared to a starting MSRP of $73,000 for the entry R1T. What‘s more, depending on battery sourcing the WT trim could qualify for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit unlocked by the Inflation Reduction Act.
Rivian Price Walk
|| Standard Battery | Large Battery | Max Battery |
|-|———–|—————|————-|
|Dual Motor | $73K | $79K | $89K |
|Quad Motor| – | $87K | $97K |
Note the quad motors provide more power and faster acceleration. Upgrading battery size from standard to max nets an extra 140 miles of range.
When equating cost to key performance specs, the base Silverado EV WT offers a stellar value. A $39,900 sticker price nets 400+ miles range, 664 horsepower and the latest tech. Compare that to the entry R1T still crossing the $70K threshold before any options.
On the availability front, Rivian is currently delivering trucks to customers while Silverado EV production begins in late 2023. Chevy expects to build 25,000 electric Silverado trucks in 2024 – a drop in the bucket of its total annual pickup output but a start. Rivian aims for 50,000 units in 2023.
Driving Range and Recharging Expectations
Few factors provoke more anxiety in prospective EV buyers than range and charging. How far can these electric trucks travel between plugging in, and how quick is the juicing process?
Let‘s examine the numbers.
The Silverado EV WT is EPA-rated for more than 400 miles range by Chevrolet‘s estimates. Rivian buyers can choose between three battery sizes – from the standard 260-mile variant up to 320 miles or 400+ miles for the Max.
Ford and Rivian conducted joint towing tests revealing range dropped approximately 50% when towing near max capacity for EVs. That means around 200 miles range while towing for properly equipped R1Ts and Silverado EVs.
DC Fast Charging
Silverado EV: Add 100 miles in 10 minutes (~1,000 miles per hour)
Rivian R1T: Regain 140 miles in 20 minutes (420 miles per hour)
The Chevy appears to enable quicker high-power top ups for heavy-duty use cases. Still, both trucks drive innovation delivering generations ahead of fossil fuel counterparts here.
Performance Power and Drivability
You‘ll undoubtedly want to know – how quick and agile do these next-gen trucks drive beyond just range limits?
Let‘s review the output and acceleration benchmarks starting with the bread and butter workhorse variant – the Chevy Silverado EV WT:
- 664 HP
- 780 lb-ft Torque
- 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds
Stepping up to the Silverado EV RST First Edition:
- 754 HP (Up to)
- 785 lb-ft Torque
- 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds
Now for the adventure-focused Rivian R1T‘s performance:
Dual Motor Configuration
- 600 HP
- 600+ lb-ft Torque
- 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds
Quad Motor Configuration
- 835 HP
- 908 lb-ft Torque
- 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds
While Rivian edges out Chevy in raw power and acceleration metrics, both companies imbued their EVs with responsive, engaging driving dynamics earning praise from reviewers.
Towing, Payload and Gear Capacities
Truck owners expect ample ability to haul cargo, toys or trailers when duty calls. So how much rated payload and towing capacity does each pickup promise?
Silverado EV Tow/Haul Specs
- Payload: 1,200 – 1,300 lbs
- Max Towing: 20,000+ lbs (select trims)
- Bed length: 5 ft, 11 inches (up to 10‘, 10" extended)
Rivian R1T Tow/Haul Specs
- Payload: 1,760 lbs
- Max towing: 20,000+ lbs (select configs)
- Bed length: 4 ft, 6 inches + gear tunnel
Rivian bests Chevy‘s payload rating but lags in bed size. Unique extras like the R1T‘s gear tunnel between rear seats expand capacity for outdoor gear. Cadence of towing use will determine if 200-400 miles range works.
Safety tech like trailer brake assist, blind zone trailering mirrors and up to 14 cameras aid both models here.
Styling and Interior Experience Comparisons
While capabilities dominate truck buying decisions, design preference and interior creature comforts contribute strong additional sell factors.
Exterior Styling
Rivian R1T – Adventurous persona mirroring rugged gear like mountain bikes
Chevy Silverado EV – Evolutionary look adapting familiar gas-powered truck form
No right answer on styling tastes! Rivian aims for futuristic aesthetic while Chevy opts for function over flash.
Interiors
Expect premium, spacious cabins from both automakers using quality materials. The R1T pushes further towards yacht-like glam. Wrap-around driver displays with AR hints and giant touchscreens amplify next-gen vibes.
Advanced Driver Assistance and Safety
Transitioning from big diesel rigs, some shoppers have questions around electric driving learning curves. Rest assured, these EV pickups bristle with sensors and systems to expand confidence.
Chevy Silverado EV Tech
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision Alert
- Front Pedestrian Braking
- HD Rear Vision Camera
- Safety Alert Seat
Rivian R1T Driver+ Features
- Highway Assist (hands-free)
- 360° Surround View
- Forward Collision Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane Keep Assist
- Driver Monitoring Camera
Blind zone trailering monitors also assist with peripheral views while towing. Both automakers promise to keep expanding assistive features via over-the-air updates – no dealer visit required.
The Ownership and Charging Experience
Along with upfront costs, total operating expenses and access to charging shape budget planning over months and years of use.
GM backs the Silverado EV with an 8 year / 100K mile battery and electric component warranty for peace of mind. Rivian provides a similar 8 year / 175,000 warranty with separate battery guarantee. Both exceed ICE truck coverage.
Public charging networks like Electrify America and EVgo are expanding rapidly. Home charger installation also unlocks convenience and lower marginal electricity rates. As with any vehicle purchase, incorporate insurance, expected maintenance and charging costs into total cost of ownership models.
Use Case Verdict: Silverado EV vs Rivian R1T
Declaring one “winner” becomes impossible considering the diverse priorities truck shoppers bring to the table. Instead, we can match ideal use cases to the inherent strengths of each EV truck model.
Best for Work & Commercial Duty – Silverado EV
- Cost savings for high utilization
- Max payload and towing capacity
- DC fast charging enables mixed uses
Best Adventure & Premium Choice – Rivian R1T
- Leading interior refinement
- Gear tunnel apt for overlanding
- Tank turn for off-road maneuvering
Both trucks push boundaries on sustainability and capabilities that could expand the EV conversion wave. As more models like the F-150 Lightning, Tesla Cybertruck and electric Maverick join the party, frame options will continue widening – given charging adequacies keep pace.
For now the Silverado EV and Rivian R1T stake compelling early claims as the most serious electric trucks blending productivity with the passion early adopters crave. Carefully weighing priorities against price points spotlights the ideal choice for your needs among these trailblazers.
I‘d be happy to walk further through model differences and ownership considerations in light of your use cases! Reach out with any other questions.
