Rivian R2: This is the first SUV from the American manufacturer we will see in Europe

As planned, Rivian’s CEO, R.J. Scaringe, unveiled to the world this past Thursday what will be the company’s third electric passenger model. At an event held in California, Scaringe revealed the most interesting details of the new Rivian R2 that will arrive in the North American market in early 2026, and which we should also see in Europe shortly afterwards.

Although, as we said, nearly two years remain before the first R2 deliveries become a reality, Rivian has already begun accepting reservations in the North American market. To complete a reservation, Rivian requires a refundable deposit of 100 dollars. According to Scaringe himself at the presentation event, the price of the R2 in this market will start at 45 thousand dollars.

Here it is! This is the long-awaited Rivian R2

At first glance, there is no doubt that the new Rivian R2 is inspired by its bigger sibling, the R1S SUV that the company already sells today. Both models are very similar, apart from their dimensions. Thus, we can say that the R2 is basically a scaled-down version of the R1S, which will surely suit a larger number of drivers when this model also arrives in Europe.

As can be seen in the image above, the new Rivian R2 measures 4,715 mm in length, compared with the R1S’s 5,100 mm. Likewise, its height is lower, at 1,700 mm versus 1,837 mm for its bigger brother. The wheelbase is also shorter, at 2,935 mm compared with the R1S’s 3,075 mm.

As for its propulsion system, the Rivian R2 will be available with one, two or three electric motors. In the last case, two of them on the rear axle and the third on the front. According to Scaringe himself, this triple-motor version will be capable of reaching 100 km/h in about 3 seconds, which will place this electric SUV among the quickest in its segment.

Range will be another of the Rivian R2’s strong points. The company will offer several battery packs with different capacities to better suit the needs of each type of customer, with up to 300 miles (482 km) possible on a single charge with the largest-capacity pack. The maximum charging power is not yet known, but the manufacturer has confirmed that in the North American market the R2 will come standard with a NACS charging connector. Needless to say, when it arrives here in Europe this connector will be CCS2.

Rivian will, in principle, begin R2 production during the second half of next year, so as to make the first deliveries in early 2026 in the North American market, as promised. The first R2 units will come off the assembly line at the company’s plant in Normal (Illinois), which is where it currently produces the R1T and R1S. However, the company intends for R2 production to ultimately be located at a new plant it is already building in the state of Georgia.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6-IXVVvJZM