Rivian, the American electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is expanding its lineup with the introduction of two new midsize SUVs – the R2 and R3. This surprise announcement comes as a pleasant surprise to EV enthusiasts, as the R3 platform had not been previously announced. Rivian’s CEO, RJ Scaringe, expressed his excitement about the new products, stating that they embody Rivian’s commitment to performance, capability, and usability while remaining accessible to a wide range of consumers.
The R2 is described as a midsize SUV that offers a combination of performance, capability, and utility in a five-seat package. With a starting price of $45,000, the R2 aims to provide an affordable option for those looking for adventure and everyday use. Consumers can expect the R2 to become available within the first six months of 2026, and reservations have already exceeded 68,000 within 24 hours of the announcement.
Rivian’s R3 platform, which includes the R3 midsize crossover and its performance variant, the R3X, will be launched after the R2 to ensure a smooth rollout. The company promises that the R3 will be priced lower than the midsize SUV, making it an attractive option for consumers.
Both the R2 and R3 vehicles boast impressive acceleration capabilities, with the ability to reach 60 miles per hour in less than three seconds in their quickest powertrain configuration. Rivian offers three powertrain options – single-motor, dual-motor, and tri-motor – allowing consumers to choose the level of performance that suits their needs.
In terms of range, Rivian provides two battery sizes for both the R2 and R3 platforms. The larger battery size enables the vehicles to travel over 300 miles on a single charge. Additionally, Rivian ensures convenience by offering compatibility with both NACS and CCS plugs for charging.
This announcement comes several years after Rivian first started delivering its vehicles. The company’s market capitalization currently stands at $12.46 billion, reflecting the growing interest and demand for electric vehicles.
Rivian’s expansion of its EV lineup demonstrates its commitment to providing consumers with a wide range of options that cater to their needs and preferences. With the introduction of the R2 and R3 platforms, Rivian continues to establish itself as a key player in the EV market, offering performance, capability, and affordability in its vehicles. As the EV industry continues to grow, Rivian’s innovative approach and expanding product lineup position it as a formidable competitor in the market.
