I’m standing next to what I’ve fondly called the R1T Studios. This is a video I didn’t think I’d be making this soon, but as many of you know, the world of EVs moves fast, and sometimes an opportunity comes along that you just can’t ignore.
I am officially saying goodbye to my beloved Rivian R1T.
If you’ve been following the channel, you know I’ve been a massive fan of this truck. In my one-year review, I even went as far as to say I prefer the R1T over the Cybertruck for daily usability and off-road soul. However, our family needs have shifted. After having several R1S loaners during service appointments, I realized how much I missed that seven-seater versatility. With the Cybertruck already in the driveway covering our “truck” needs, moving to the R1S Gen 2 just makes sense for the SherwinM fleet.
The Deal That Made It Happen
I wasn’t looking to lose a ton of money on a trade-in. Initially, Rivian’s offers involved rolling negative equity into a new lease, which was a hard “no” for me. But as the end of the second quarter approached, Rivian reached out with a much better structure. They were able to effectively wipe out the negative equity on my Gen 1 R1T, allowing me to step into a Gen 2 R1S at a number I was comfortable with.
Stripping the Accessories: A Year of Mods
Before turning the R1T back in, I had to spend some serious time in the garage removing all the gear that made this truck mine. It’s a bittersweet process, but it’s a great chance to see how these accessories held up over a year of off-roading and daily driving.
1. Running Boards (EVBase)
These have been a lifesaver. Even with “Kneel Mode” enabled, having a solid step makes entry and exit so much easier. I noticed that one of my front left brackets was actually bent—likely from a rock while off-roading—but the boards themselves held up incredibly well.
2. Interior Organizers
I pulled out the IrvLabs center console organizer. It’s a brilliant, screw-less design that I highly recommend for any Rivian owner. I also removed the rear seat media mounts and the hard drive I used for Gear Guard footage.
3. Bed Liner and Exterior Tech
Removing the bed liner revealed the “battle scars” of a truck that was actually used. Plenty of dust and dirt from trails in Anza-Borrego, but the bed itself is in great shape. I also had to swap back the stock hitch cover and remove my $50 Rivian license plate frame (seriously, Rivian, the pricing on those is wild!).
| Accessory | Status | Note |
| Running Boards | Removed | One bracket bent from off-roading, but still functional. |
| Bed Liner | Removed | Protected the bed from a year of trail dust. |
| Irv Labs Organizer | Removed | Still the best console mod on the market. |
| Mud Flaps | Left On | EV Base stopped making these, so I’m leaving them for the next owner. |
| Screen Protectors | Left On | High-quality protectors from Wrap Legacy. |
Refelctions on Gen 1 Ownership
My R1T wasn’t perfect, but Rivian’s service was top-tier. I had a few “Gen 1” growing pains:
- Battery Replacement: Rivian replaced the pack early on (not a recall, just a proactive swap).
- Knuckle Hubs: I had a campaign issue that nearly left me stranded in the desert, but it was fully repaired under warranty.
- Glass Roof: Had to be replaced due to a non-factory issue.
Despite these hiccups, the R1T has been an incredible vehicle. It’s the truck that proved electric could handle the rugged lifestyle I love.
What’s Next: The R1S Gen 2
I’m crossing my fingers for a smooth delivery of the R1S. We’re moving into the Gen 2 platform, which promises a more refined electrical architecture and updated cameras. I’m excited to bring you guys along for this new chapter—expect “By The Numbers” videos, range tests, and, of course, a fresh round of accessory installs for the new SUV.
