Rivian is set to introduce a series of enhancements and updates for the 2025 R1T and R1S, according to documents from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The documents, first shared on the Rivian Forums, indicate one of the big pieces of the 2025 updates is the introduction of a new lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack for the entry-level standard models. This shift in battery chemistry will lower Rivian’s costs and benefit the consumer as LFP batteries are more affordable and offer a longer cycle life compared to the nickel cobalt aluminum (NCA) batteries currently used. Although LFP batteries provide a lower energy density, which means they store less energy for the same weight, potentially affecting the overall range.
Another important new addition revealed in the documents is the introduction of a standard heat pump across all models, as well as a high voltage battery heater. This is noteworthy as heat pumps are known for their efficiency, particularly in colder climates, and efficiency is king when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs). Unlike resistive heaters, which convert electrical energy into heat, heat pumps operate by transferring heat from the outside air to warm the vehicle’s interior and battery, which can improve battery performance and range in cold weather.
In terms of power and charging, the new models will feature a maximum charging rate of 210 kW, which is slightly less than the current models at 220kW. While not surprising, the documents also mention that Rivian will not yet be ready to incorporate Tesla’s NACS ports at the launch of the 2025 models, and owners will need to continue to rely on adapters to access the Supercharger network.
Rivian is making adjustments to the looks of the R1T and R1S, updating wheel options and interior designs. The 21-inch wheels are being discontinued in favor of more practical 20-inch and performance-oriented 22-inch wheels. This change likely reflects consumer feedback and performance analytics favoring these sizes for optimal balance and efficiency. On the interior, Rivian is introducing new colour schemes and materials, offering a wider array of customization options for buyers.
You can read the full EPA document below.
