Rivian, the pioneering electric vehicle manufacturer, has recently unveiled its latest midsize platform, serving as the foundation for the R2 and R3 product lines. The R2, an all-new midsize SUV, boasts a blend of performance, capability, and utility within its five-seat configuration. Perfectly optimized for both thrilling adventures and everyday use, the R2 showcases Rivian’s distinctive silhouette and face. One of the standout features of the R2 is its powered rear glass, which seamlessly drops into the liftgate, facilitating the transportation of various gear and providing a unique open-air driving experience. The interior reflects Rivian’s commitment to user-friendly design, incorporating premium, sustainable materials that are not only inviting but also easy to clean. The R2 further stands out with its first and second-row seating that folds completely flat, making it ideal for accommodating gear, cargo, and even car camping.
Meanwhile, the R3, a midsize crossover, maintains a compact footprint while delivering remarkable performance, off-road capability, passenger comfort, and storage. The R3X, a performance variant of the R3, elevates dynamic abilities both on and off the road. Rivian’s design philosophy remains inviting and iconic, ensuring immediate recognition while demonstrating the brand’s scalability across different form factors. Both the R2 and R3 will offer two battery sizes, with the larger pack providing over 300 miles of range on a single charge and achieving 0-60 mph acceleration in under 3 seconds for the quickest powertrain configuration. In terms of pricing, the R2 is expected to start at around $45,000, with the R3 positioned at a more accessible price point. Rivian’s focus on cost reduction through manufacturing, design innovation, and a robust supply chain is evident, making their electric vehicles more accessible to a broader audience. Reservations for the R2 are currently open in the U.S., requiring a $100 deposit, and deliveries are anticipated to commence in the first half of 2026. The R3 and R3X will follow suit, ensuring a smooth launch and rapid ramp-up, drawing from the lessons learned from Rivian’s previous simultaneous launch.
The vehicles are built on an all-new midsize platform designed for exceptional performance, range, and cost efficiency. The platform consolidates and eliminates parts through intelligent design, incorporating features like high-pressure die castings, a structural battery unit, and closure systems that reduce complexity. The R2 and R3 utilize Rivian’s drive unit platform, featuring Single-Motor (RWD), Dual-Motor (AWD), and Tri-Motor configurations. With an all-new 4695 cell, the structural battery provides significant improvements in energy density and output, delivering over 300 miles of range for both the R2 and R3. Fast charging is a key feature, with DC fast charging compatible with both NACS and CCS, achieving a 10%-80% charge in less than 30 minutes. Autonomous capabilities are enhanced with Rivian’s new perception stack, featuring 11 cameras, five radars, and a powerful compute platform. Frequent software updates ensure ever-improving and expanding features, making the R2 and R3 exciting choices for tech-savvy consumers.
Rivian Chief Design Officer Jeff Hammoud emphasized the intentional design of the R2 and R3, highlighting their adaptability to different sizes and form factors while staying true to Rivian’s inviting and iconic design language. The R2’s design priorities include a focus on adventure, ample space for passengers and gear, and refined touches such as a new steering wheel with integrated haptic control dials. Production of the R2 is set to begin in Rivian’s existing manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois, allowing for an earlier launch with reduced capital requirements. This approach aims to efficiently leverage existing resources, reduce launch risks, and expand the site’s total capacity to 215,000 units per year. While the Georgia plant remains crucial for scaling production, the focus is initially on the capital-efficient launch of the R2 in Normal, Illinois.
