Of all the players that have used EV development to launch themselves, Rivian isn’t necessarily the least successful, but its recent results don’t show unwavering optimism either.

Indeed, Rivian confirmed a 10% job cut a few days ago, a decision that comes with a downward revision to its production forecasts for the current year. The company now plans to produce 57,000 vehicles in 2024, well below previous estimates of 81,700 units.

Rivian, which spent money to increase production of its R1S and R1T, also suffered a loss on every car sold.

Rivian R2 in multiple figures

To really launch, Rivian will have to go down a notch, and that starts today presentation of the all-new R2. With more compact dimensions than its predecessor, the R1, this car represents a new, more affordable entry for the American brand, which is scheduled to go on sale in the second half of 2026. good news Europe will also be eligible for this model. With an announced starting price of $45,000 in the United States, or around €41,000 at the current exchange rate, the Rivian R2 is aimed at customers looking for an electric SUV at a relatively “reasonable” price.
The Rivian R2 will be available with one, two or three electric motors. The single-engine configuration will have rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive will be available in two- and three-engine versions. The American manufacturer claims a range of 330 miles (about 530 km) according to the American EPA combined cycle and more than 550 km according to the European WLTP cycle.

Smaller, but extremely practical

The new SUV will comfortably accommodate five people thanks to the large wheelbase of 3.07 meters. The R2 is much smaller than its R1S sibling. He measures 4.71 meters long, 2.14 meters wide (with mirrors) and 1.70 meters high. It is 38 centimeters shorter than the R1S and less suitable for off-roading. In terms of design, the R2 stays true to the brand’s established aesthetic, with simple, angular lines accentuated by Rivian’s clear light signature front and rear.
Rivian stands out for the capacity and storage that its models offer. This car offers a trunk, a front rack typical of an electric car, and a number of practical accessories, such as an easily installed and removable bicycle rack, fixed in a special port at the rear of the car. The power rear window functionality, similar to the Fisker Ocean, provides great practicality for transporting long items.
Rivian puts the emphasis on personalization by offering numerous electrical outlets for connecting accessories in various places in the car, including in the boot, on the roof rack and in the rear near the towing device. Practical for active recreation. The car also offers two glove boxes and the ability to extend all the seats in the cabin to create a sleeping place during trips in camping mode.

Rivian will see us in 2026

Level 2 semi-autonomous driving is planned, including adaptive cruise control and lane centering, as well as features like Pet Comfort and Rivian Gear Guard to keep pets in the car comfortably and deter thieves, respectively.
Although already available to book in the United States, Rivian R2 will not hit the roads before 2026. Reservations are available on the official Rivian website with a $100 refundable deposit.

The first deliveries are expected in the first half of the same year.

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