One Year with My 2025 Rivian R1T Tri-Max at 28,000 Miles
One Year Later
One Year Later
It’s officially been one year with my 2025 Rivian R1T Tri-Max. One year, 28 thousand miles, and a lot of adventures. From real estate shoots to camping trips and search and rescue missions, this truck has done everything I’ve asked of it.
I upgraded from my Gen 1 Quad Motor not because I had to, but because I wanted to see how far Rivian had come. And honestly, it was worth it.
Why I Upgraded
I’d been going back and forth for a while, but the big reason I pulled the trigger was because Rivian made it simple. I was able to finance it through my business right on Rivian’s website with Chase. No bank meetings, no extra paperwork, no nonsense.
I also wanted the quieter cabin, smoother suspension, upgraded cameras, and new tech. And yeah, I wanted to see if they fixed the small quirks my first truck had. Spoiler: they mostly did.
Gen 2 vs Gen 1: What’s Actually Different
If you’re wondering if the Tri-Max feels like a whole new truck — it kind of does.
Cameras: Much sharper. Gear Guard footage finally looks professional.
Cabin noise: The A-pillar wind whistle is gone. I can actually hear Maple snoring in the back seat.
Ride quality: Smoother and more refined, but still capable off-road.
Power delivery: The Tri-Max setup adds subtle power and better throttle response. Launch Mode still throws you back in your seat.
Software: Enhanced Highway Assist is fantastic for long trips, and Google Cast lets me toss YouTube on the screen at lunch.
My Loadout and Upgrades
You know me — nothing stays stock for long. Here’s what I’ve added over the year:
Clear Matte PPF: Stealthy look, protects the paint.
Super Pacific X1 Camper + Truma Heater: About 30 nights camping or SAR work. Reliable and warm, small hit to range.
Tires: Pirelli Scorpion Elect LTs were fine, but Toyo AT3s are still the champs.
Gear Slide + Tool Chest: A must-have for work and trail rescues.
Pro Eagle Jack: Mostly used helping other people, but it earns its spot.
12V REGO Battery + VHF Radio: Key SAR gear. Power draw is minimal even after long missions.
What’s Broken
No truck is perfect. The Tri-Max has had a few hiccups, but nothing serious.
TPMS sensors: Rear motors caused interference. Rivian relocated the receiver — works better now.
Alignment: Needed one right from delivery. Pretty standard.
120V outlet: Died after a camping trip. Rivian replaced it under warranty.
Caster insert: Failed after the half-shaft recall. They replaced it.
Minor stuff: One broken trim clip, one self-inflicted tailgate dent. Fixed both myself.
Considering how much I use this thing, I’m honestly impressed.
The Interior
The Ascend interior is beautiful. The bronze and wood combo looks premium without feeling flashy. The seats are incredibly comfortable on long drives, and even Maple’s a fan.
My only real complaint is the sound system. It’s too polite. I need bass that hits harder. Everything else inside — flawless.
The Money Side
Let’s talk numbers.
Sticker price: Around $107,000 (closer to $106,000 with referral points)
Out the door: Roughly $114,000 after taxes and fees
Trade-in value: About $74,000 through Rivian
Since I financed it through my business, I used Section 179 to write it off over five years. That lets me depreciate it slowly instead of taking one big deduction up front. Helps balance out my taxes since my real estate work income changes month to month.
It’s not cheap, but using it for business makes it worth it.
Real-World Use and Range
For Search and Rescue, this truck has been incredible. I’ve only come close to running low on range once, and that was during an out-of-county call. Otherwise, it’s been solid. Mud, rain, snow — it handles it all.
A lot of people didn’t think an EV could handle SAR. They’re not saying that anymore.
Would I Do It Again
If I had to start over, I’d still buy the Tri-Max — but maybe not the R1T.
For how I use it, the R1S would probably make more sense. I use the back like an SUV workspace more than a truck bed. Still, if you need the bed or prefer the truck look, the R1T is awesome.
If you’re buying your first Rivian, I’d recommend a used Gen 1 or Dual Max. The prices are solid and you still get that Rivian feel.
Final Thoughts
After a year and 28,000 miles, the Tri-Max has proven itself. Work, camping, mud, rescues — it’s handled it all. A few small issues, but nothing that’s made me regret it.
Next up, I’m heading to Rivian’s AI event in Palo Alto on December 11. I’ll finally meet some of the other creators I’ve been talking to online, and maybe even RJ if I’m lucky.
If you’re thinking about getting a Rivian, hopefully this gives you a real look at ownership. If you have questions, drop them in the comments or reach out.
Still excited for what’s next — for Rivian, and for this truck.
See you on the trail.
— Dom
