After making the R1T truck and the R1S SUV, Rivian is working on the R2, which will likely be a small SUV. The R2 will come out in 2026 and cost between $40,000 and $60,000. The R2 should be able to go off-road like Rivian’s other consumer cars, which could lead to a pickup truck in the future. Rivian is also working hard to improve its R1T truck and R1S SUV production. By the first quarter of 2023, more than 9000 vehicles will have been made. Rivian is also working hard on its next electric car, built at the company’s shop in Normal, Illinois. Carbuzz says that the company’s chief financial officer, Claire McDonough, talked about the R2 at a car show and gave some details. McDonough says that the design of the R2, which will build on the unique look that makes the R1T and R1S stand out in a sea of new EVs, is almost done. The R2 will be shown off in early 2024 and will go on sale in 2026. It will likely start as a small SUV, but a truck could be added later. McDonough says the R2 will cost between $40,000 and $60,000, less than the R1T and R1S. McDonough says that the R2 “really leans on the brand and ethos of what R1 has started,” carrying on the R1T’s sense of adventure. McDonough said that “the UI/UX experience” is another way that the R2 may stand out, in addition to the fact that the company is known as the outdoorsy EV brand. How do comfort and ability affect each other? Even so, some concessions will have to be made if prices are to stay affordable. RJ Scaringe, CEO of Rivian, says, “On a vehicle with a cost target, you have to decide where you’re going to spread your investment.” We wouldn’t be surprised if the R2 gave up some of its off-road ability for a more excellent cabin or more comfort on the road. The company also says that R1T and R1S have changed how it works with suppliers and negotiates with them to keep material prices down. The R1T and R1S have sold well so far, especially since they are the first expensive product from a young company. On the other hand, the R2 could completely change the brand, making it possible for many more people to own a Rivian, boosting sales, and making Rivian a household name. But as Tesla found out with the Model 3, it’s hard to make a lot of cheap cars, so Rivian will still have to get through the next three years.
