For most people, the Rivian R1T is already about as adventure-ready as an electric pickup gets. But when Nike ACG needed a mobile aid station capable of supporting one of America's toughest trail races, Rivian's Special Projects team decided the standard truck wasn't quite enough.
The result is the one-off Rivian x Nike ACG R1T Recharge Truck – a heavily modified electric pickup designed to keep ultramarathon runners moving when they hit the wall.
Created in just 12 weeks, the bespoke truck debuted at at the Brink 100 Mile Trail Run, part of Oregon's Siskiyou Out Back Trail Running Festival. Rather than acting as a simple support vehicle, it's effectively a fully self-contained trailside oasis, positioned at mile 80 – the point where organisers say around 30% of competitors abandon the race.
The R1T's battery doesn't just power the truck itself. It also runs a pair of slushie machines serving Coca-Cola and a bespoke mango-and-pickle electrolyte blend developed by Nike nutritionists, while integrated lighting, refrigeration and support equipment transform the pickup into a mobile recovery station. Ice bins provide both chilled drinking water and cooling packs for overheated runners, while custom-built storage keeps energy gels, snacks and race essentials neatly organised.
The full works
The modifications go well beyond a few accessories. Rivian removed the rear seats to create additional storage space, added slide-out cargo systems and dual ice chests, and installed a custom canopy made from perforated recycled polyester developed by Nike ACG. The shade structure wraps around the truck to create a welcome refuge from the summer heat while encouraging airflow through the aid station.
The Recharge Truck won't be working alone, either. It will be joined by six additional Rivian vehicles, together forming what the two brands describe as the "Ultimate Aid Station", complete with music, hydration, nutrition and mechanical support for runners tackling the final 20 miles of the event.
Although this particular R1T is strictly a one-off, Rivian says it's evaluating whether some of the bespoke components – including the rear cargo conversion and slide-out storage systems – could eventually make their way into future customer accessories. Nike ACG, meanwhile, plans to continue using the truck at ultrarunning events across the United States after its race debut.
