Rivian's skunkworks division, once a behind-the-scenes operation, has officially become a formal performance division known as the Rivian Adventure Department, or RAD for short. This move marks a significant step forward for the electric automaker, indicating a commitment to developing high-performance products and experiences. The RAD team has been working on various projects, including a one-off Rivian R1T safari rig, which can be classified as the world's most interesting, powerful, fastest, and quickest golf cart. This project showcases the team's creativity and expertise in modifying the R1T to push its capabilities to the limit. One of the most notable achievements of the RAD team is the development of Soft Sand Mode, which was later integrated as an over-the-air update to the R1S and R1T. This feature allows the vehicles to handle soft surfaces, such as sand, with ease. The RAD team's work has also led to the creation of the ...
Rivian’s skunkworks division, once a behind-the-scenes operation, has officially become a formal performance division known as the Rivian Adventure Department, or RAD for short. This move marks a significant step forward for the electric automaker, indicating a commitment to developing high-performance products and experiences.
The RAD team has been working on various projects, including a one-off Rivian R1T safari rig, which can be classified as the world’s most interesting, powerful, fastest, and quickest golf cart. This project showcases the team’s creativity and expertise in modifying the R1T to push its capabilities to the limit.
One of the most notable achievements of the RAD team is the development of Soft Sand Mode, which was later integrated as an over-the-air update to the R1S and R1T. This feature allows the vehicles to handle soft surfaces, such as sand, with ease.
The RAD team’s work has also led to the creation of the Kick Turn 360-degree tank turn function, which enables the R1 Quad to slide in a circle in motion. This feature is a testament to the team’s ability to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible with electric vehicles.
The most significant indication of RAD’s formalization, however, is the launch of the Rivian RAD Tuner. This feature allows owners to adjust 10 variables ranging from power split and steering weight to wheel slip and roll stiffness. It also brings forth Hill Climb and Desert Rally drive modes, which were developed by the RAD team for the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and Rebelle Rally events.
The RAD Tuner also allows owners to save their custom modes, including the Feder Mode created by The Drive’s editor, Joel Feder. This feature is a testament to the team’s commitment to delivering unique and personalized experiences for Rivian owners.
Rivian’s participation in the 2026 FAT Ice Race, a competition that showcases the capabilities of electric vehicles in extreme conditions, is a significant indication of the RAD team’s growing presence in the world of motorsports. The team’s involvement in the event will also help to further validate the performance and capabilities of the R1S Quad.
The formalization of RAD marks a significant step forward for Rivian, and it will be exciting to see how the team will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with electric vehicles. With the launch of the tri-motor R2, the RAD team is poised to take the automotive world by storm.
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