The tech behind Rivian’s 2026 Quad-Motor truck and SUV — and that kick turn

Rivian is now taking orders for its highly anticipated 2026 Quad-Motor pickup truck and SUV, a powerful addition to the electric vehicle market that boasts some impressive specifications. With a staggering 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 pound-feet of torque, these vehicles can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in under 2.5 seconds, a feat that is hard to overlook. Wassym Bensaid, Rivian's head of software, describes the quad-motor configuration as the culmination of the company's innovations to date. "Now that we have full in-house motors, we have complete control over both the hardware and software," he stated. This level of control has allowed Rivian to integrate a range of new features, set to launch via software updates this September. Among these features is the intriguing "kick turn," which enables the vehicle to pivot around its center while in motion by adjusting power distribution to the wheels. Tested during a press event in June, this function allows vehicles traveling under 20 mph on dirt to spin without needing to steer. This innovation aims to provide off-road enthusiasts with a more efficient way to navigate tight trails. Rivian previously promoted a feature known as the "tank turn," but it was never released due to concerns from CEO RJ Scaringe and others that it could damage trails. The kick turn serves as a more practical alternative, although Rivian has implemented software limitations to prevent misuse, restricting the feature to dirt surfaces and controlling the speed. The second-generation quad-motor configuration was unveiled during a May 2024 press drive, highlighting a comprehensive update of Rivian's flagship R1 line. This overhaul encompassed everything from the battery pack to the software user interface, as the company aims to enhance performance while lowering manufacturing costs. As Rivian gears up to deliver the quad-motor variant, which ranges from $115,990 to $125,990 depending on the trim, the stakes are high. Their more affordable R2 vehicles aren't slated for production until the first half of 2026, making the success of the quad-motor crucial for boosting sales. Bensaid emphasized the importance of software in this new configuration, noting the development of advanced algorithms for torque vectoring. "This allows real-time processing based on data from the four wheels, all while ensuring safety protocols are in place," he explained. This technology enables features like the kick turn and the "RAD Tuner," which allows drivers to customize vehicle dynamics through a central touchscreen. Rivian also introduced a launch cam feature for the 2026 models, enabling users to record their vehicle’s performance in "Launch Mode," which propels the R1T quad-motor to 60 mph in a breathtaking 2.5 seconds. Additionally, the new vehicles are equipped with the North American Charging Standard, providing access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. As Rivian continues to innovate in the electric vehicle landscape, the introduction of the quad-motor SUV and truck marks a significant step forward in performance and user experience, keeping the brand at the forefront of the industry.