Rivian, an innovative electric vehicle manufacturer, has officially announced its expansion into the midsize market with the unveiling of its new R2 and R3 model lines. These new vehicles are built upon a groundbreaking midsize platform that showcases Rivian’s commitment to efficient design and advanced technology. By streamlining components and employing intelligent engineering solutions, Rivian aims to deliver vehicles that are not only cutting-edge but also more accessible to a wider range of customers.
The newly developed platform is central to both the R2 and R3, demonstrating a strategic move towards optimized manufacturing and design. Rivian highlighted the platform’s innovative features, including high-pressure die castings and a structural battery pack where the top section doubles as the vehicle floor. These advancements, along with simplified closure systems, significantly reduce the number of parts needed, enhancing efficiency and potentially lowering production costs. Both the R2 and R3 models also incorporate Rivian’s existing drive unit platform, internally developed network architecture, computer topology, and software stack, ensuring a cohesive and technologically advanced driving experience across the brand’s offerings.
Rivian R2 front view showcasing its modern design and sleek headlights, emphasizing its electric SUV nature.
The Rivian R2 is introduced as a five-seat midsize SUV, designed to compete in the popular SUV segment with an all-electric powertrain. The R3, on the other hand, is presented as a midsize crossover, engineered to excel in performance, off-road handling, passenger comfort, and cargo capacity. For those seeking enhanced performance, Rivian also announced the R3X, a performance-oriented variant of the R3. The R3X is designed to offer superior dynamic capabilities both on paved roads and in off-road environments, catering to drivers with a taste for adventure and more spirited driving.
A standout feature of the R2 is its powered rear glass, which fully retracts into the liftgate. This design element is intended to facilitate the transport of larger items and provide an open-air driving experience, bringing occupants closer to nature. Furthermore, both the first and second-row seating in the R2 can be folded flat, creating a versatile space suitable for carrying gear, cargo, or even car camping, enhancing the vehicle’s practicality and appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Rivian R2 rear perspective highlighting the full-width taillight design and the functional liftgate, emphasizing its spacious cargo area.
In terms of battery options, both the R2 and R3 will offer customers a choice between two battery sizes. Rivian estimates that the larger battery pack will provide a range exceeding 300 miles on a single charge. For the most performance-focused configurations, Rivian claims a 0-60 mph acceleration time of under three seconds, positioning these models as leaders in electric vehicle performance.
Rivian is aiming for a starting price of around $45,000 for the R2, with the R3 positioned at a lower price point. This pricing strategy is intended to make Rivian vehicles accessible to a broader customer base, aligning with the company’s goal of wider EV adoption. According to Rivian, significant efforts have been made by their development teams to control costs through manufacturing innovations, design efficiencies, and strategic supply chain management. Reservations for the R2 are open in the U.S. starting today with a $100 deposit, and deliveries are projected to commence in the first half of 2026. The R3 and R3X models will follow, with deliveries beginning after the R2 launch to ensure a smooth production ramp-up and market entry.
Rivian R2 interior showcasing the minimalist dashboard, large central screen, and spacious cabin, emphasizing the modern and tech-focused design.
Further details about the R2 and R3 emphasize Rivian’s focus on technology and user experience:
- Motor Options: Customers can choose from single-motor (rear-wheel drive), dual-motor (all-wheel drive), and tri-motor configurations (with two motors in the rear and one in the front), offering various levels of performance and capability.
- Structural Battery: Utilizing new 4695 cells, the structural battery is designed to improve energy density and power output, targeting a range of over 300 miles for both R2 and R3 models.
- Fast Charging: The vehicles will be compatible with both the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and CCS (using an adapter), supporting DC fast charging from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes.
- Advanced Self-Driving: Rivian’s next-generation perception system will include 11 cameras, five radars, and an upgraded computing platform, promising significantly enhanced autonomous driving capabilities.
- Software and Feature Updates: Continuing Rivian’s approach, the R2 and R3 are built with a sophisticated network architecture and software platform to facilitate frequent over-the-air software updates, ensuring continuous improvement and feature expansion over time.
Rivian R3 rear view demonstrating its crossover hatchback design, compact size, and sporty stance, highlighting its urban and adventurous appeal.
RJ Scaringe, Rivian founder and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for the new models, stating, “I have never been more excited to launch new products — R2 and R3 are distinctly Rivian in terms of performance, capability, and usability, yet with pricing that makes them accessible to a lot of people.” He further emphasized the engineering and design teams’ dedication to innovation, not only in product features but also in manufacturing processes to achieve substantial cost reductions. Scaringe believes the R2, with its targeted starting price, will offer consumers a compelling electric vehicle option packed with personality and advanced technology.
Rivian’s Chief Design Officer, Jeff Hammoud, noted how the company’s design language effectively scales across different vehicle sizes and styles, as seen in the R2 and R3. He highlighted that while the flagship R1 models introduced Rivian to the market, the R2 and R3 aim to broaden accessibility while upholding Rivian’s core product values. Hammoud emphasized the integration of hardware, software, and human-centered design in the R2, balancing aesthetics with functionality and building upon Rivian’s recognizable and appealing design identity.
Rivian R3 interior showcasing a similar design language to R2 but in a more compact form, highlighting the user-friendly interface and modern aesthetics.
Key design priorities for the Rivian R2 include:
- Adventure Focus: The R2 is designed to enhance the open-air experience with four passenger windows and a fully retractable rear window, alongside rear quarter windows that can be vented. The R3 adopts a sporty hatchback style, catering to a different aesthetic preference.
- Spaciousness: Significant attention has been given to passenger legroom and cargo space in both models, featuring fold-down seats, front and rear trunks, and ample interior storage solutions.
- Refined Interior: Rivian introduces a new steering wheel design with integrated haptic control dials and emphasizes the use of easy-to-clean materials and finishes throughout the interior, combining durability with a premium feel.
Rivian R3X showcasing a more rugged and performance-oriented design with enhanced ground clearance and sporty wheels, emphasizing its off-road and dynamic capabilities.
Production of the Rivian R2 is strategically planned to begin at Rivian’s existing manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois. This decision allows for a faster launch of the R2 and significantly reduces the capital investment required. The Normal plant will see an expansion in capacity to accommodate a total production of 215,000 vehicles per year, encompassing the R1T, R1S, EDV, RCV, and the new R2. Rivian’s Georgia plant remains a crucial part of the company’s long-term strategy for scaling production of both the R2 and R3. However, the resumption of construction at the Georgia site is expected to be deferred to prioritize the R2 launch in Illinois.
Featured image: Rivian R3
All images provided by Rivian
