Rivian R2

Rivian R2 prototypes have now been driven by a select few in digital media, and we have learned quite a bit more about this price-friendly SUV, including potential performance specs.

Rivian’s upcoming R2 SUV is undergoing final validation testing, ahead of its planned release in the first half of this year – with at least one vehicle spotted without camouflage (but with a wrap) on public roads in recent days.

Rivian (RIVN) has officially started rolling out validation units of its highly anticipated R2 electric SUV from its factory in Normal, Illinois. CEO RJ Scaringe shared the news, confirming that the company is on track for customer deliveries in the first half of the year.

As promised, we are here in Palo Alto, California, live at Rivian’s inaugural AI and Autonomy day, which the American automaker has been teasing for a month now. The event was filled with numerous exciting updates, including new in-house technology, a new AI assistant, the addition of LiDAR, and a uniquely wrapped Rivian R2.

A report this morning detailed American EV automaker Rivian’s plans to lay off a portion of its current workforce as it tries to conserve cash while gearing up for the launch of its newest model, the R2, next year.

Less than a week after sending a beautifully wrapped fleet of R2 validation prototypes out into the wild, Rivian founder and CEO has shared more of the design work at HQ, including a look at the EV’s multi-link rear suspension.

Rivian has shared an exciting update on the progress of the development of its R2 validation builds. The production-intent R2 vehicles will be put through long cycles of harsh real-world conditions and will do so in style. The American automaker showcased its unique R2 wraps today, and these camoed designs are true to the Rivian brand and some of the most creative I’ve ever seen.

Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe has posted another interesting facet into the design of the American automaker’s upcoming R2 BEVs. As you’ll see below, the Rivian R2’s body harness has been significantly reduced in size, weight, and connections to enable lower assembly costs and an overall more environmentally friendly build.

The development of Rivian’s R2 validation builds continues to progress. We know so because the American automaker’s founder and CEO, RJ Scaringe, continues to pepper us with welcome updates with plenty of fantastic images. The latest post features the inner workings of Rivian’s Maximus drive unit, which will propel the upcoming R2 EVs when they hit the market next year.

While the current majority in DC shared intentions to likely kill the existing $7,500 federal EV tax credit, some language in a (very fluid) proposal suggests that not all automakers will be immediately affected. For example, Rivian is an American automaker whose sales are young enough that US consumers might still be able to take advantage of the tax credit, and that could also include the upcoming R2 EVs.

Another day, another exciting post from Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe sharing images of the upcoming R2 EV. This is the third R2 update from Rivian in as many days, as the American automaker’s second flagship model configuration inches closer to full-fledged production.

Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe just posted a fresh image of a Maximus drive unit—a vital component teased for some time now that will be a key piece in Rivian’s goal to reduce the cost per drive unit in its R2 EV builds.

Rivian is still on track to launch the midsize R2 next year. The expansion at its Normal, Illinois, plant is quickly advancing as it preps for R2 deliveries in 2026. Rivian says it’s “slightly ahead” on construction. Here’s the latest update on Rivian’s R2 expansion in Normal.

Rivian is plowing ahead with its new midsize R2 electric SUV. As it gears up for production, Rivian’s CEO, RJ Scaringe, gave us a sneak peek at the R2 body being built with production dies.

Rivian (RIVN) is betting big on its upcoming midsize R2 electric SUV. Starting at about $45,000, the R2 is about half the cost of its current R1S and R1T models. CFO Claire McDonough confirmed the company is working around the clock to launch R2. It will also help take the brand global as Rivian plans to take the R2 overseas.

Battery manufacturer LG Energy Solution just announced that its Arizona subsidiary has signed a long-term supply agreement with US automaker Rivian for 4695 cylindrical batteries. The cells will be produced at LG Energy Solution Arizona’s new standalone US facility beginning next year and will power Rivian’s upcoming R2 BEVs.

Rivian (RIVN) is moving closer to restarting construction at its $5 billion EV plant in Georgia after pausing it months ago. The company recently took a significant step by applying for a federal loan to get its second manufacturing plant back on track.

After getting the green light to expand its Normal, IL plant, Rivian (RIVN) is preparing for its more affordable R2. Rivian gained approval from the town of Normal for a massive plant expansion, including a new 1.14 million sq ft facility.

The more affordable Rivian R2 will be easier to plug into Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. Rivian confirmed the R2 will have a charge port on the driver’s side, making it compatible with Tesla’s Supercharger network.

Rivian’s next-gen EV is drawing comparisons to Tesla’s best-selling Model Y. However, according to Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe, its upcoming R2 will be “worlds different” than the Tesla Model Y. Its R3 will be even more unique, with few like it on the market.

Anticipation is building for Rivian’s more affordable R2 electric SUV. According to Rivian, R2 pre-orders are well over 100,000 as buyers line up to get some of the first next-gen Rivian EVs.