15:39 27-01-2026

Rivian R2 electric crossover begins trial production with $45,000 starting price

Rivian starts trial production of the R2 electric crossover in Illinois, targeting mass-market sales from $45,000. Features include AWD, 300+ mile range, and plans for 175,000 units annually.

As previously reported by the site 32CARS, Rivian has started trial production of the R2 electric crossover at its Illinois plant and is preparing for the launch of serial assembly. The company's CEO stated that the first test vehicles have already rolled off the line and are being used for final certification. Sales of the model are planned to begin in the first half of the year.

The R2 will be a key model for Rivian, targeting mass-market buyers. According to management, this crossover is expected to help the company move closer to its goal of producing hundreds of thousands of vehicles annually. The starting price for the R2 is set at around $45,000, which is comparable to the average cost of a new car in the U.S.

Even in its base version, the model will feature two electric motors and all-wheel drive. With an optional battery, the range will exceed 300 miles, equivalent to about 483 kilometers. A spacious interior and increased storage space have also been promised.

The R2 is aimed at bolstering Rivian's financial stability amid multibillion-dollar losses in recent years. The production plan calls for up to 175,000 vehicles per year at the Illinois facility. In the future, a new plant in Georgia will join the assembly, where future brand releases, including the more affordable R3 crossover, will also be produced.