Rivian, the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has recently unveiled its latest accessory for adventure enthusiasts: a rooftop tent with a cinematic surprise. This innovative product, known as the “treehouse,” comes equipped with a movie projector, providing an immersive outdoor movie experience. Brian Gase, Rivian’s senior director of prototype and special projects, revealed this exciting feature during a customer event in Laguna Beach, California.
The treehouse is not your typical rooftop tent. It is contained within a hardshell that opens up to reveal a spacious tent. On the opposite side of the opening, there is a large window with a roll-down screen where the movie projector can be set up. The projector can be powered using the vehicle’s energy source, making it convenient for movie nights under the stars. Additionally, the treehouse includes an interior fan and lighting to enhance comfort and convenience.
While the design of the treehouse is expected to remain largely unchanged when it goes on sale, Rivian is focused on maintaining high quality while keeping costs reasonable. Gase emphasized the importance of affordability, especially considering that the treehouse will be an accessory for Rivian’s upcoming R2 SUV, which is expected to have a starting price of $45,000. The goal is to offer customers an exceptional product without adding significant expenses.
The treehouse is just one of several adventure-oriented accessories unveiled by Rivian during the customer event. Another notable accessory is a cargo box that can be mounted to the back of the vehicle, along with a travel kitchen. The kitchen features a water tank, cooler, and cookware set, providing all the essentials for outdoor cooking and dining.
The highlight of the event was the introduction of Rivian’s next-generation EV lineup. The R2, a five-seat, all-electric midsized SUV, stole the spotlight with its impressive range of over 300 miles and a base price of $45,000. This affordable yet high-performing SUV is set to go into production in the first half of 2024 at Rivian’s factory in Normal, Illinois. Interestingly, the company made a strategic decision to move production from its planned Georgia factory to the existing facility in Normal, saving approximately $2.25 billion in the process.
In a surprise twist, Rivian also unveiled the R3 and R3x hatchback vehicles, adding a sporty and compact option to its EV lineup. However, the company has not provided a specific timeline for the production of these models.
Rivian’s commitment to innovation and adventure is evident in its latest offerings. With the treehouse rooftop tent and other accessories, customers can enhance their outdoor experiences while enjoying the benefits of electric mobility. As Rivian continues to push the boundaries of EV technology, it is clear that they are not only focused on creating exceptional vehicles but also on providing a complete ecosystem for adventure enthusiasts.