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Rivian's "Kick Turn": A Second Chance for Off-Road Maneuverability

Rivian Automotive, while officially established in 2009, has emerged as a significant contender in the electric vehicle market in recent years. Initially known as Mainstream Motors, the company, under the leadership of founder and CEO RJ Scaringe, has consistently pursued its mission of producing innovative electric trucks and SUVs designed for both on-road and off-road performance, while prioritizing environmental responsibility.

Rivian vehicles are known for their advanced features, including autonomous driving capabilities, over-the-air software updates, and a distinctive battery power system. However, for those who enjoy off-road adventures, the concept of "Tank Turn," initially unveiled in 2019, generated considerable excitement. This feature promised to allow Rivian vehicles to execute a 360-degree rotation in place, mimicking the maneuverability of a tank. Unfortunately, Rivian later decided to discontinue the Tank Turn feature due to its potential to damage trails. But recent promotional material suggests a revised version of the concept might be making a comeback.

From Tank Turn to Kick Turn: A Refined Approach

The original "Tank Turn" concept allowed a Rivian vehicle to spin in place, similar to how a tank maneuvers by rotating its tracks in opposite directions. However, the company has since rebranded the technology as "Kick Turn," and it will not be available on all Rivian models.

Kick Turn will be exclusively offered on second-generation models of Rivian's Quad-Motor R1T and R1S. This limitation is due to the technical requirements of the feature, which relies on the independent operation of all four motors.

How Kick Turn Works

Unlike a tank, which utilizes tracked wheels for rotation, Rivian's Kick Turn relies on the independent control of each of the vehicle's four wheels. Each wheel receives power from its own dedicated motor, enabling precise and responsive adjustments.

When Kick Turn is activated, the driver uses push-button controls on the steering wheel to dictate the direction of each wheel's spin, thereby controlling the vehicle's turning direction. The speed of the rotation is regulated through the accelerator pedal.

A More Practical and Controllable Spin

While the original Tank Turn aimed for complete 360-degree rotations, the updated Kick Turn prioritizes practicality and control. It focuses on shorter, more manageable spins that can be particularly useful for course correction while navigating off-road trails.

The updated system allows drivers to initiate and control the feature even while the vehicle is in motion, provided the speed is below 15 mph. This capability adds another layer of flexibility and responsiveness, allowing for quick adjustments in challenging terrain.

The Future of Rivian's Off-Road Capabilities

The return of a spin-in-place feature, now refined as Kick Turn, demonstrates Rivian's commitment to enhancing the off-road capabilities of its vehicles. By focusing on controlled and practical spins, Kick Turn offers a valuable tool for navigating tight trails and overcoming obstacles. While the initial Tank Turn concept generated significant buzz, the redesigned Kick Turn appears to be a more mature and user-friendly solution, promising to enhance the off-road driving experience for Rivian owners. The limited availability on quad-motor models highlights the advanced engineering required to implement this unique feature, further solidifying Rivian's position as an innovator in the electric vehicle market.