You'll Be Able to Get a Rivian R2 This Year, Though Production Will Take Some Time to Ramp Up
Car and Driver
February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rivian has announced that production of its compact electric SUV, the R2, will begin in the second quarter of 2026, with full-scale volume production expected to ramp up by the end of the year. The company anticipates delivering between 20,000 and 25,000 units of the R2 in its first year, which is significantly lower than its long-term goals. The R2 is positioned as a key product for Rivian's growth, with plans to expand production capacity at its Normal, Illinois factory and build a new assembly plant in Georgia later this decade.
The R2 is expected to start at a base price of $45,000, making it more affordable than Rivian's other models. The company aims for the R2 to become the majority of its sales by 2027, with plans to produce up to 155,000 units annually at its expanded Normal factory. This compact SUV is designed to appeal to a broader market, with an estimated range of 300 miles and a dual-motor powertrain delivering 656 horsepower.
Rivian's current models—the R1S, R1T, and electric commercial van—are expected to maintain similar sales figures in 2026 as they did in 2025, which was just over 42,000 units. The company's strategy focuses on gradually increasing production of the R2 throughout 2026, with initial production limited to a single shift at its Illinois factory before expanding to two shifts later in the year.
The R2's launch marks an important milestone for Rivian as it seeks to scale up production and solidify its position in the electric vehicle market. The model is designed to be more accessible than its higher-priced counterparts, positioning it as a potential best
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Originally published on Car and Driver on 2/13/2026