The Rivian R1T is transformed into a capable off-roader that can tackle any terrain.
Optima Batteries will be using the Rivian R1T EV truck as a platform to show off its catalog of overlanding goodies at the upcoming SEMA show. For now, all we have is a digitally rendered teaser image of the profile, which shows off several pieces of equipment and parts suppliers. Overlanding is the biggest frontier that EV trucks have to overcome.
It's clear that placing a heavy load on an electrical drivetrain drastically decreases the range, so we are curious to see how Optima batteries will tackle this challenge. No details regarding the added equipment have been confirmed, but from this image, we can see that Optima's planned build looks like the real deal.
Some obvious additions are the overlanding front and rear bumpers and rock rails beneath the doors. The rear bumper has also been kitted out with a swinging spare wheel and jerry can holder. BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires are wrapped around a set of off-roading alloy wheels. You can also see an orange runner board attached to the bedside rack and some storage containers on the roof rack.
Although not depicted here, Optima's Rivian overlanding project will be accompanied by a mobile power station that has been assembled onto a turtleback trailer. This will feature a Level 2 charging port and different power outlets ranging from 12-220 volts. This trailer will also feature an electric stove, an air compressor for reinflating tires, an integrated stereo system, and camping lights for when things get dark.
Optima has two overlanding Rivian builds ready for SEMA and will also be showing its OrangeTop and HyperCore Lithium battery technology off. The YellowTop and PureFlow AGM product line is also being expanded with more resilient batteries.
New aftermarket gear for the Rivian comes as a relief to those who may want to use the electric truck to be a bit more adventurous. This new proposed trailer also appears to be a bit more versatile than the concept kitchen and gear tunnel, which were confirmed to be undergoing a redesign a few days ago. Considering that Rivian is also revising or removing some of the truck's other features, it helps that third parties have the young EV brand's customers' needs in mind.
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