Activating Kick Turn on initial R1T and R1S Quad models from Rivian: Instructions Revealed
Rivian, the American electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced that its 360-degree "tank turn" feature, known as Kick Turn, will only be available on the 2026 Rivian R1T and R1S Quad models. This decision is due to significant hardware and software differences between the original and new models.
The upcoming 2026 models will boast a number of advancements that make the Kick Turn feature possible. One such change is the use of in-house designed and engineered oil-cooled Ascent motors, replacing the water-cooled Bosch-sourced motors used in the original models. This change enhances control over the vehicle's performance.
Moreover, the 2026 models will feature a simplified electrical architecture with only 7 ECUs and a zonal system, compared to the original 17 ECUs. This streamlined design facilitates better integration of advanced features like Kick Turn. The new electrical architecture and in-house motors also allow for full control over the software stack, a luxury that wasn't available in the original models.
The Kick Turn feature, which allows vehicles to perform a graceful spin, similar to a tank turn, relies on a one-to-one motor-to-wheel ratio, optimized in the quad-motor setup of the 2026 models. This setup allows for more precise control over each wheel, making the feature possible.
These advancements mean that the Kick Turn feature cannot be retrofitted to the original four-motor Rivian R1T and R1S models without significant hardware and software updates. Rivian's Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, has stated that they do not have the same level of control over the gen-one Quad to activate the Kick Turn feature.
Despite the Kick Turn feature being an expensive add-on, it is likely to be desired by some people due to its tank-like maneuverability. However, owners of the first-generation Rivian R1T and R1S Quad models must buy a new 2026 Rivian R1T or R1S Quad to access the feature.
The 2026 Quad models are a massive leap forward for Rivian, offering more than just an off-road party trick. While the original first-gen R1T with its quad-motor powertrain only cost $67,500, today's Tri-Motor is more expensive and has more power, despite being just as quick. It is possible that the 2026 Quad models may have improved power specifications, as the original first-gen R1T only had 835 horsepower and 908 pound-feet of torque.
For more details about the Kick Turn feature and the 2026 Rivian models, visit Rivian's website.
The 2026 Rivian models, with their advanced electrical architecture, in-house motors, and one-to-one motor-to-wheel ratio, will offer the Kick Turn feature, enhancing their unique lifestyle and technology, particularly in the R1T and R1S Quad models. Unfortunately, owners of the original first-generation models, even if they desire the Kick Turn feature's tank-like maneuverability, will need to upgrade to the 2026 Quad models to experience it, as it cannot be retrofitted due to significant hardware and software differences.
