Rivian Electric Van Gets 30% More Range, AWD — SkimNews
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- Rivian began delivering its first major hardware upgrade for its electric van in early October 2026, adding a new 129 kWh LFP battery and a dual-motor AWD option.
- The new battery provides a 30% increase in range, with EPA lab figures showing 355.5 miles for the FWD model and 322.25 miles for the AWD version, translating to an estimated real-world range of around 200 miles.
- Rivian designed the upgrade specifically to expand route coverage into more rural delivery networks, where AWD and longer range are needed for challenging conditions.
- The upgrade is currently limited to the larger EDV 700 model, while the smaller EDV 500 retains its existing 100 kWh pack and front-wheel drive.
- Rivian's van business remains heavily reliant on Amazon, but the company was recently spotted testing a van in Walmart+ livery, signaling potential expansion to other fleet customers.
Why it matters: This upgrade directly addresses the van's primary market limitation—its 160-mile range—which excluded it from rural and utility fleet routes. By reaching a practical 200-mile range with AWD, Rivian can now compete for a broader segment of the commercial delivery market beyond its anchor customer, Amazon.
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