The innovative EV accessory found in the Rivian R1T, known as the slide-out camping kitchen, might soon undergo a transformation.
A new camp kitchen design has been revealed in a patent application published by the USPTO on July 18, following Rivian’s filing in 2023. This alternative version of the camp kitchen, which slides out from the Gear Tunnel pass-through behind the cab, now features an integrated BBQ grill.
Patent image of a Rivian camp kitchen with grill
The BBQ grill in the new design is a smaller version of the traditional outdoor cooking appliance, tailored to fit in the Gear Tunnel and connect to the same sliding mechanism as the original model. Like its predecessor, this version also runs on the R1T’s battery.
Rivian first showcased its initial camp kitchen in 2019, setting its price at $5,000, but faced delays before ultimately removing it from the online configurator in 2023. It’s worth noting that patented concepts do not always translate into production plans.
Patent image of a Rivian camp kitchen with grill
This isn’t the only potential redesign of the camp kitchen that Rivian has sought to patent. Another patent application involving a camp kitchen for the R1S SUV surfaced in October 2023. Given the absence of a Gear Tunnel in the R1S, the camp kitchen is unveiled from the SUV’s tailgate.
Rivian has a lineup of upcoming models to complete, alongside introducing new accessories. The R2 SUV, priced at $45,000, is scheduled for production commencement in 2026, followed by the R3X and R3 hatchbacks. Rivian also hinted at the arrival of several additional EVs in its collaboration announcement with the Volkswagen Group.
