U.S. electric vehicle startup Rivian launches new R2 model: starting at $45k, the most expensive version will be delivered first

IT之家 March 12 News: When Rivian unveiled its midsize electric SUV R2 in 2024, it announced that the new vehicle would launch in the first half of 2026. Tonight, Beijing time, Rivian has completed the original timeline as promised: the first batch of vehicles is about to begin deliveries.

Following common practices in the auto industry, Rivian first rolled out a performance version. The R2 Performance starts at $57,990 (IT之家 note: at the current exchange rate, about 391,000 yuan RMB), features an 87.9kWh battery pack, and has a single-charge range of 531km. The dual-motor four-wheel-drive system delivers 656hp and 825Nm of torque, with fast-charging from 10% to 80% taking about 29 minutes.

In terms of configuration, the R2 Performance comes with a semi-active suspension, matrix LED headlights, a nine-speaker audio system, and an interior with ash wood trim. Both front and rear seats offer heating, and the front seats also support ventilation. The rear side window can be fully retracted into the tailgate, and a flashlight is integrated inside the door.

The R2 Performance is available with the Autonomy+ driver assistance system, a 1,995kg towing package, and more exterior paint colors. The launch package includes a lifetime subscription to Autonomy+, the towing package, and additional paint color options.

The R2 Premium will make its debut later this year, priced at $53,990 (at the current exchange rate, about 371k yuan RMB). This version also uses an 87.9kWh battery pack, with a range of 531km, and the dual-motor system output is reduced to 450hp and 728Nm.

The R2 Premium drops the semi-active suspension, has 20-inch wheels, and removes some off-road and performance driving modes.

The single-motor R2 will be introduced in 2027. The R2 Standard is priced at $48,490 (at the current exchange rate, about 334k yuan RMB). It still uses an 87.9kWh battery pack but switches to rear-wheel drive. With the front motor reduced, this version’s range increases to 555km, with motor output of 350hp and 481Nm.

The R2 Standard has a simplified configuration: it comes with a five-speaker audio system, heating only for the front seats, 19-inch wheels, and it removes the all-terrain driving mode. The rear side window glass also cannot be fully retracted into the tailgate like the higher-end version.

Later in 2027, Rivian will also launch an R2 Standard model priced at $45,000 (at the current exchange rate, about 310k yuan RMB), featuring a smaller battery pack and an estimated range of about 426km.

In addition, Rivian plans to add an AI assistant in future software updates. The assistant will run locally, using on-device computing.