Rivian R2 Specs Surface Ahead of March 7 Reveal

Chris Teague
by Chris Teague

Upstart automaker Rivian has had its ups and downs, but buyers have pretty consistently rated it highly for satisfaction. Though the company’s first two vehicles, the R1T pickup and R1S SUV, are expensive, high-end EVs, Rivian has announced smaller models riding on a new R2 platform. The first, a lower-cost electric SUV, is expected to be revealed on March 7, but we’re getting a sneak peek at the specs and pricing thanks to the internet sleuths on X/Twitter.


User Chris Hilbert dug around on Rivian’s website and found source code for the R2’s model page. He notes that the R2 will go on sale in 2026 with a range of 330 miles. Pricing will start at $47,000, though models with the 300-plus-mile range will likely cost more. Like its larger siblings, the R2 will deliver blistering acceleration, with a claimed 0-60 mph time of three seconds. The new SUV will be considerably smaller than the R1S, though Rivian’s official teasers show a vehicle that looks quite a bit like its larger counterpart.


Rivian has since updated the site to remove access, but the official reveal is just a day away. In the meantime, it will be interesting to observe Rivian’s fortunes as it prepares for the new model. The company cut 10 percent of its salaried workforce last month and said that interest rates and geopolitical uncertainty had forced its hand.


While cheaper Rivian EVs are certainly welcome, the company has continued racking up losses, raising questions about its long-term viability. Competitor Fisker may need to lean on Nissan for financial support, though Rivian has fleet sales and other investors to help its cause. That said, 2026 is a long time from now, and the auto industry sometimes moves rapidly, so there are no guarantees things will go smoothly.


[Image: Rivian via X]


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Chris Teague
Chris Teague

Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.

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  • SCE to AUX SCE to AUX on Mar 06, 2024

    Rivian is steadily closing the gap on its losses (unlike other startups), but they'll probably need a shot of cash to turn the corner.


    They might be a 15-year-old startup, but at least they're not run by amateurs or mental cases.


    I think the R1 has enough credibility to ease acceptance of the R2.

  • Aleh Vera Aleh Vera on Mar 06, 2024

    the whole pay more for more miles is a stoopid game....i just want awd with 400-600 miles and i will jump in AND with fast charging from 5% left to 100 in under 20 minutes

  • Chris I dislike SUVs. I think they are clunky looking and not much in the handling department. I'll take an Audi A4 or BMw three series or even a VW Jetta over any SUV. It I need more interior room for a shot time, I'll rent something bigger.
  • Amwhalbi I have a sedan and an SUV, and for pure driving and riding enjoyment, I'll pick my sedan every time. But yes, SUV's are generally more practical for all around usage, particularly if you have only one vehicle. So I think the perfect answer is the sedan hatchback (a la the last Buick Regal) which can still yield the drive and ride or a sedan, yet provide a greater modicum of practical, accessible cargo capacity. Most of the sedans made could (with minor styling changes) easily become 4 door hatchbacks. Oh, yeah, I forgot - Americans don't like hatchbacks, even if they do in Europe...
  • NJRide This almost seems like a more boring version of what happened when the B-Bodies were euthanized to free up Arlington for full size SUVs. I believe the Kansas plant is going to be for the Bolt, a theoretically more in product. As I have said before I have no love for this Malibu but I do think GM should still offer some sedans. Since its becoming a niche product maybe Chevy could do something interesting like a smaller SS or something w retro cues
  • Kcflyer yes, preferably with normally aspirated V8's or inline 6's.
  • ScarecrowRepair Why do chicken coops have two doors?Because if they had four, they'd be chicken sedans.
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