Electric Cars

Unlocking Value: The Used Rivian R1T Opportunity

The Allure of Affordable Electric Power: First-Generation Rivian R1T

The original iteration of the Rivian R1T electric pickup, which debuted in 2022, captivated the automotive world with its formidable power, substantial real-world range, striking design, and off-road prowess. While a brand-new, updated 2026 Rivian R1T Quad-Motor (Gen2) carries a price tag exceeding $110,000, the used market presents a stark contrast. First-generation models, particularly the Quad-Motor variant, are now available for significantly less, with some units trading hands for less than half the new price.

Depreciation's Impact: A Closer Look at Rivian's Market Shift

This remarkable price adjustment on the used market is a direct consequence of depreciation, a common phenomenon in the automotive industry, but particularly pronounced with rapidly evolving electric vehicle technology. Despite appearing almost identical visually, the first-generation Quad-Motor R1T differs substantially from the updated version. Key under-the-hood changes include Rivian's transition from external motor suppliers to its proprietary drive units, alongside a significant overhaul of the vehicle's wiring and computer architecture. Nevertheless, the initial R1T with its four electric motors remains an exceptionally capable machine, boasting over 300 miles of range in its Launch Edition trim, a robust 835 horsepower, adaptive air suspension, and an impressive 11,000-pound towing capacity.

Navigating the Purchase: Considerations for a Pioneering EV

With prices for these early models beginning at approximately $40,000 in the pre-owned market, they represent a tempting proposition. However, potential buyers should proceed with informed caution. Rivian, as an automotive manufacturer, is still in its nascent stages, and acquiring a used vehicle from a relatively new automaker can introduce unique challenges. It is crucial to understand what the ownership experience entails before committing to such a purchase.

Real-World Experiences: Durability and Minor Setbacks

Insights from long-term tests provide valuable perspectives. A notable automotive publication, after driving a first-generation R1T for 40,000 miles, reported minimal issues. These included an intermittent false alarm for the gear tunnel and a Bluetooth camp speaker that became immovably lodged. While these issues were minor, obtaining a service appointment proved to be a lengthy process, often taking up to three months. This highlights a critical consideration: while Rivian is expanding its service network, accessibility can still be a challenge in certain regions, requiring owners to travel considerable distances for maintenance.

Maintenance Overview: Expected Costs and Common Issues

Routine maintenance for the R1T primarily involved tire rotations and cabin air filter replacements. A significant expenditure noted was the need for a complete tire replacement at around 20,000 miles, incurring a cost of approximately $2,000. Another owner's three-year experience with a Quad-Motor R1T largely mirrored this, with the primary replacements being tires and a 12-volt battery, apart from which the vehicle performed flawlessly. However, not all experiences have been uniformly smooth. Another automotive review platform encountered more persistent issues, including a loose front window trim, a key fob battery failure after six months, and the development of various squeaks and rattles over 17,000 miles of use. Despite these minor annoyances, the vehicle remarkably exceeded its EPA-rated 314-mile range, achieving 321 miles on a single charge, even equipped with 20-inch all-terrain tires.

Addressing Major Component Concerns: The Inverter Incident

A more serious incident reported involved a front motor inverter fault that rendered the vehicle inoperable, necessitating a tow. This component was replaced without charge under warranty. Furthermore, anecdotal reports from some early owners describe multiple failures on initial production trucks. While most of these were covered by warranty, the cumulative frustration led at least one owner to sell their vehicle due to a less than ideal ownership experience. Therefore, thorough research is paramount. As with any pre-owned vehicle acquisition, especially from a newer manufacturer, an inherent level of risk exists. Prudent buyers will carefully assess these factors before making a decision.

Volvo is on the cusp of introducing a completely revamped version of its top-tier XC90 SUV. After nearly a decade since its initial release, the current second-generation model is set to be succeeded by an all-new iteration. This strategic update is poised to significantly enhance the vehicle's electric driving capabilities, reflecting Volvo's commitment to sustainable mobility solutions and responding to the growing market demand for extended-range plug-in hybrids. The forthcoming model aims to revitalize the brand's position amidst shifting industry trends and address recent challenges in its electric vehicle lineup.

Upcoming Volvo XC90: A Leap in Plug-In Hybrid Technology

In a significant announcement, Hakan Samuelsson, the esteemed leader of Volvo, recently indicated the imperative need for a fresh iteration of the XC90. This declaration signals the imminent arrival of a third-generation XC90, which is widely anticipated to incorporate a cutting-edge, long-range plug-in hybrid system. This advanced technology mirrors that of the recently revealed XC70 crossover, destined for the vibrant Chinese market within the next quarter. The current XC90 plug-in hybrid, known as the T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid in the United States and the T8 Recharge AWD elsewhere, boasts a 14.7 kWh usable battery capacity, offering an EPA-estimated 33 miles of all-electric range, complemented by a 2.0-liter gasoline engine for a combined total range of 530 miles. While this setup has proven effective for daily commutes, the ambition for greater electric autonomy is clear.

The inspiration for the next XC90's enhanced electric range likely stems from the new XC70, which is built on Geely's innovative Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA). This Chinese crossover will be available with battery options of 21 kWh or a more substantial 39 kWh, projecting a CLTC-rated electric range of up to 62 miles and an impressive 112 miles, respectively. Although CLTC figures are often optimistic, the inclusion of a larger battery pack inherently promises a notable increase in pure electric driving distance. The introduction of a robust, trouble-free XC90 could offer Volvo a much-needed boost, especially as the automaker currently navigates global sales downturns and a burgeoning reputation for software-related issues. While a precise launch date remains under wraps, industry observers speculate that the new XC90 might not grace the market until at least 2027, highlighting the anticipation surrounding this pivotal release.

The anticipated evolution of Volvo's XC90 into a more advanced plug-in hybrid model represents a critical juncture for the esteemed automaker. From a discerning consumer's perspective, this strategic pivot towards extended electric range is not merely an upgrade; it's a profound statement on sustainability and practicality. In an era where environmental consciousness and daily usability are paramount, a vehicle that offers substantial all-electric commuting capabilities, coupled with the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer journeys, truly resonates. This development suggests a future where luxury, performance, and environmental responsibility harmoniously coexist. As a reporter, I see this as a compelling narrative of adaptation and innovation within the automotive industry, urging other manufacturers to recalibrate their focus towards genuinely addressing the evolving demands of a greener, more connected world. The success of the new XC90 will not only be measured in sales figures but also in its capacity to redefine the user experience for eco-conscious drivers who refuse to compromise on premium quality.