Rivian has officially announced that the R2 will be unveiled on March 7th, allowing interested buyers to secure one of the first units by placing a fully refundable deposit. Alongside this announcement, a video was released showcasing the R2 as an electric vehicle designed for the masses. The video primarily depicted a suburban lifestyle, emphasizing community engagement rather than rugged adventures in the wilderness.
It is clear from the video that the R2 is not intended to compete with the off-road capabilities of the R1S. Instead, the R2 is positioned as a crossover eSUV suitable for everyday use, whether it be commuting to work or sharing with family members. The footage suggests that the R2 is tailored for individuals who value both functionality and enjoyment, allowing them to fulfill their responsibilities while still having fun and spending quality time with loved ones. Essentially, the R2 can be seen as a smaller version of the R1S, similar to how the Tesla Model Y is a more affordable alternative to the Model X.
Shortly after the announcement, several pictures surfaced, leading to speculations that the R2 was already on the roads. These images showcased two Rivian EVs side by side: a Forest Green R1S, which was easily identifiable, and a white EV with a distinct design that deviated from previous models.
It is worth noting that this new model exhibited various novelties and peculiarities. The most notable changes included a new wheel design, increased blacked-out trim, and a charging port located on the rear passenger side of the vehicle. Additionally, the EV featured a slightly inclined C-pillar without the Rivian emblem. Many online users quickly assumed that this was the highly anticipated Rivian R2.
However, we have reason to believe that this assumption may not be accurate. The EV spotted in downtown Los Angeles possessed front tow hooks, a feature absent in the R2S, even in the patent sketches. Furthermore, it showcased bold daytime-running lights surrounding the main headlights, as well as fog lights. In contrast, the R2 is expected to debut with slimmer daytime running lights and three LED optical sensors, distinguishing it from the R1T and R1S. Additionally, the two EVs appeared strikingly similar in size, leading us to question whether they are indeed different models.
Another important detail to consider is that Rivian is planning to temporarily halt production at its Normal, Illinois factory in order to implement crucial updates to the R1-series EVs. The Chief Financial Officer confirmed this downtime last year, stating that it was necessary to bring significant improvements to the R1-series. Given this information, it is possible that the images we are seeing depict the new R1S rather than the smaller R2-series vehicle.
The location of the charging port is particularly telling. Rivian has confirmed that it will adopt Tesla’s charging port design, making it logical to position it at the rear, on the passenger side, for easy access to Superchargers.
In a series of images, the Rivian Adventure Network is showcased alongside the R1S, suggesting that the NACS plug may be compatible with the R1S, eliminating the need for Tesla’s Superchargers. However, it should be noted that the pedestals seen in the images are not real and were merely used as props.
Furthermore, Rivian has announced its plans to open its DC charging network to other brands by the end of the year. This indicates that the announcement may have broader implications for the industry, rather than just being a photo session for a new model.
Adding to the excitement, Rivian has been spotted testing camouflaged R1T and R1S vehicles in Alaska, hinting at an upcoming refresh. The images below and the accompanying photo gallery may provide a glimpse of what to expect.
It is worth mentioning that Rivian has not indicated that the R2 will be produced at the Normal factory, so it is unlikely that there are many working prototypes available. The smaller crossover eSUV is scheduled to enter production in 2026, once the Georgia plant is operational.
Despite this, eyewitnesses claim to have seen an R1S alongside a smaller version, possibly the R2, in a parking lot. The distinguishing features of the R2 in the images are the rear quarter glass and the inclined D-pillar, which differ from the straighter design of the R1S. However, it is possible that distortion occurred due to the photos being taken from a nearby high-rise.
While Mazda fans may not be pleased with the two-row CX-70 being a smaller version of the CX-90, potential Rivian buyers have expressed a desire for a mini-R1S. There is speculation that their wish may come true on March 7, although it is unlikely that the preview shown here is an accurate representation of the R2.
Regardless of the model’s identity, Rivian is undoubtedly pleased with the public’s reaction to its plans for a new addition to its lineup. The R2 is expected to have a starting price in the low $40s and should not exceed $60,000 in the top trim. Hopefully, the young automaker will equip the R2 eSUV with a generous battery that enables a range of at least 300 miles on a full charge.
NEWS: A potential first look at the Rivian R2 next to an R1S at a Rivian Adventure Network site has been revealed.
According to the Source autoevolution.com