FIRST RIVIAN R1S LFP ROAD TRIP! NORMAL, IL FACTORY DELIVERY TO NC IN OUR BASE MODEL

EV Channels Review

The reviewer takes delivery of a base model 2026 Rivian R1S with the Standard LFP battery, highlighting it as the most affordable option in the lineup. The road trip from Normal, IL to North Carolina serves as a test for the LFP battery's real-world performance and the vehicle's native NACS charging capability. Key observations include the LFP battery offering a respectable, albeit not class-leading, highway range of around 200-230 miles, especially with the all-terrain tires. The native NACS charging experience is mixed; while it initially achieves high charging speeds (around 210 kW), it quickly derates due to Tesla's V3 Supercharger cable thermal limitations and the Rivian's own battery thermal management, especially in hot weather. The reviewer notes the LFP battery's recommendation to charge to 100% for health and its potential for quicker overall charging sessions compared to larger nickel-based packs, despite the range limitations. Positives include the vehicle's solid build quality, comfortable ride, and the convenience of native NACS. Negatives are the limited range of the LFP pack for extensive road trips and the thermal limitations affecting charging speeds. The reviewer concludes that the base LFP R1S is a compelling option for those who don't need maximum range or performance, offering a good balance of features and cost.