Rivian’s new California Dune special edition costs $105,900 for the R1S configuration, and $99,900 if you opt for the R1T truck. It’s not cheap. But it is cool. Your average Rivian R1T or R1S is already a massively capable off-road vehicle, and the California Dune Edition takes the capability to the next level with new underbody reinforcement, beefy wheels, and more. The pair of special editions also look pretty sweet thanks to some choice cosmetic enhancements that help the special edition earn its lofty price tag.
Rivian’s New Special Edition Offers 850 Horsepower
Regardless of body style, each California Dune Edition starts life as a Tri-Motor R1, with two electric motors over the rear axle and a single motor up front. Combined, tri-motor R1s produce a hilarious 850 horsepower and 1,103 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a 0-60 time of just 2.9 seconds. Rivian says the EPA-estimated range is 329 miles on a charge. The California Dune Edition also offers a Soft Sand drive mode, which helps with traction on loose surfaces like, say, sand.
Speaking of special equipment, Rivian also adds additional underbody protection for heavy-duty off-roading, as well as new 20-inch wheels and a spare tire. The wheels come in two specifications: either a paint-matching finish (i.e. tan) or black. Rivian also throws in Maxtrax recovery boards, dark roof crossbars, and a powered tonneau cover for R1T models.
California Dune Editions Get A Unique Look
No matter your choice of body style, all California Dune Edition models benefit from a unique look. Rivian calls the tan hue seen here California Dune, and a Darkout Package will add contrasting black badging to the mix. Inside, a new Adventure interior features two-tone motifs with a tan Sandstone hue accented by Black Mountain materials. Rivian says there’s also a new, “durable and easy-to-clean flooring material.”
TopSpeed’s Take
The pair of special edition Rivians are pricey, but we appreciate the added level of off-road equipment. Considering the off-road capability of the Rivian R1 platform, you may never need items like the underbody protection or the recovery boards, but both are nice to have.
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