Rivian has introduced an improved version of its powered tonneau cover for the R1T electric pickup truck, addressing years of complaints from owners about noisy operation and frequent jams. The third-generation design, now available for purchase through Rivian’s online Gear Shop, replaces the problematic sliding panels with a roll-up system that the company says runs virtually silent and resists water better than before.
The tonneau cover, which slides or rolls over the truck’s open bed to protect cargo from weather and theft, has been a sore spot since the R1T’s 2022 launch.
Early models used eight large slats that often got stuck, made grinding sounds, or failed after just a few thousand miles, leading Rivian to pause sales of the feature in late 2022.
A second attempt in December 2023 added stronger springs and reinforced parts, but owners still reported issues like excessive noise during use.
Influential reviewer Zack Nelson, known as JerryRigEverything on YouTube, documented a failure on his R1T after less than 1,500 miles, highlighting the frustration for early adopters.
The new third-gen cover changes the approach entirely. Instead of sliding panels, it uses 36 smaller slats that roll up compactly into the space behind the truck’s rear seats, called the Gear Tunnel. Rivian claims this makes it quieter and more reliable, with no more jamming or loud mechanisms.
It’s water-resistant to handle rain or splashes, and opens or closes at the push of a button via the truck’s touchscreen or key fob. Priced at $3,300 including installation, it’s an optional add-on for new R1T buyers or a retrofit for existing owners—though not all trucks qualify due to wiring differences in early models.
For trucks built with a manual tonneau or no cover, Rivian notes compatibility checks are needed through their service team, as some Gen 1 R1Ts lack the right wiring harness.
Retrofits include a professional install appointment, which can book up to 30 days out. On higher-trim R1T models like the Tri or Quad Motor, the powered cover is now standard, while it’s a $2,000 upgrade for base Dual Motor versions.
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe teased the redesign in a social media post last year, showing it alongside a manual option and promising fixes for common gripes.
The company paused production of the second-gen cover earlier this year to refine this iteration, which debuted alongside the limited-edition California Dune R1T.
Owners on Rivian Forums are cautiously optimistic, with one user posting, “If this finally quiets it down and stops the jams, it’ll be worth every penny—fingers crossed for my Gen 1.”
This launch comes as Rivian expands its accessories lineup ahead of the more affordable R2 SUV in 2026. While the $3,300 price has some calling it steep, it’s a step toward making the R1T more practical for adventure seekers who value secure, weatherproof storage. The cover is available now on Rivian’s Gear Shop, with installs starting soon at service centers.
Source: Rivian