Rivian unveils smaller electric SUV starting at $45,000 (Photo: Disclosure/Rivian)
Last Thursday (7), the startup Rivian revealed a new SUV, marking the beginning of its second line of electric vehicles.
Following the success of its electric pickup and SUV line, the R1, Rivian unveiled its second line of models, the R2. The R2 is a relatively compact SUV with a starting price below $50,000, making it a relatively accessible EV, with initial deliveries expected to take place in the first half of 2026.
The R2 is nearly the same size as the Porsche Macan, the BMW X3, the Mercedes-Benz GLC, and the classic Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Smaller than its predecessor, the R1S, the R2 is sized for export abroad, according to a Rivian spokesperson.
At launch, the R2 will be available in three drivetrain configurations: a single motor driving the rear wheels; a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration with one motor at each end; and a three-motor all-wheel-drive setup, with two motors driving the rear wheels and one driving the front.
The R2 will also have two different batteries. The larger one, combined with the single motor, will provide over 480 km (about 298 miles) of range, according to Rivian. The sportier application, with three motors and all-wheel drive, will accelerate to 60 mph in less than three seconds. Additionally, its battery will be capable of charging from 10 to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes.
