Rivian R2 revealed: a $45,000 electrical off-roader for the lots

Rivian revealed its subsequent electrical car, the R2, a extra inexpensive SUV that the corporate is relying on to have broader enchantment than its trendy — and costly — R1T vans and R1S SUVs.

The R2 gained't go into manufacturing till 2026, however when it does it’ll include an estimated vary of 330 miles, a 0-60 mph time of three seconds, and a beginning value of $45,000 – which might put it barely under the present common sale. The worth of a brand new inner combustion car. The worth could possibly be even decrease if it qualifies for a $7,500 federal tax credit score.

Creating an electrical car that’s inexpensive to a variety of individuals is vital to Rivian's long-term viability. The corporate's R1T truck begins at $70,000, whereas the R1S SUV begins at $76,000 and may go as much as $88,000. If Rivian is to efficiently compete with Tesla and different legacy automakers that presently dominate the gross sales charts, it wants a cheaper car.

Since popping out of Stealth in 2018, the corporate has established itself as a producer of journey autos that are perfect for tenting and off-road actions. In fact, Rivian's autos are largely used for mundane excursions, like journeys to House Depot and soccer apply. However Rivian is aware of that a few of the hottest autos on the highway as we speak are vans and SUVs which are inclined to dirt-road and towing.

Rivian faces an existential take a look at because it unveils plans to place its subsequent car into manufacturing. The corporate reported a lack of $1.58 billion within the final three months of 2023, bringing its web annual loss to $5.4 billion. It additionally introduced plans to put off 10 p.c of its salaried workers, the third spherical of layoffs within the final two years. It plans to shut its manufacturing facility in Regular, Illinois for a number of weeks to make enhancements to the R1 line. And it’ll quickly open a brand new $5 billion manufacturing facility in Georgia.

R2 can't save Rivian by itself. However it’ll undoubtedly play a significant function in holding the corporate afloat.

The Rivian R2 measures 185.6 inches lengthy, which is 2 inches shorter than the Tesla Mannequin Y or about 15 inches shorter than the R1S. Its width is 75 inches or 84.4 inches with mirrors and peak is 66.9 inches. It has a big frunk (entrance truck) – described by Rivian as “expanded”. In line with its “journey” ethos, the R2 will even characteristic a nifty bike mount system that may simply connect to the car's rear accent port.