Rivian presents new mid-size platform for R2 and R3 models

US electric car manufacturer Rivian has unveiled a new mid-size platform for the new R2, its first next-generation model after the R1S and R1T. On the platform, an even smaller model will be available, the R3.

Both models are thus based on a new platform and come with a choice of one, two, or three electric motors. With the three-motor drive, two motors are installed on the rear axle and one at the front. That should enable both models to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph (96 kph) in under three seconds – Rivian did not provide comparative figures for the single and dual motors.

The press release states: “The platform consolidates and eliminates parts thanks to intelligent design, including the use of high-pressure die castings, a structural battery unit where the top of the pack also serves as the floor, and closure systems that dramatically reduce complexity. ”

“R2 and R3 also utilize Rivian’s drive unit platform and internally developed network architecture, computer topology, and software stack,” it continues.

Round battery cells

A structural battery with new 4695 cells (i.e., round cells with a diameter of 46 millimeters and a height of 95 millimeters, like BMW will be using in its New Class) is used. Rivian has not yet specified the energy content of the battery packs with these cells.

The manufacturer only announced that there would be two battery options (and not three as in the two R1 models) and that the larger battery in the R2 should enable a range of over 480 kilometers (American standard). It is clear that both models will be charged natively with NACS in North America and that an adapter will be required for CCS charging stations. The charging process from ten to 80% should take less than 30 minutes.

Rivian R2

The R2 adopts the basic design language of the familiar R1S but is a good deal smaller. At 4.71 meters, the new model is in the size class of a Tesla Model Y, while the R1S is positioned in the luxury class at 5.10 meters (the S stands for SUV, as there is also an R1T for Truck, an even longer pickup version of 5.48 meters).

The design language is similar to the familiar models, and Rivian focuses on adventure. The R2 has several design features that set it apart from other models. The backrest of the driver and front passenger seats can be folded down to create a larger lying surface for camping in the car. The rear window can be lowered in a similar way to the side windows “to create a unique open-air driving experience,” according to the company.

The R2 will be delivered in the first half of 2026 at prices starting at around 45,000 US dollars. For Europe, the R2’s availability is announced for 2027 (still without a price tag), but with an estimated range of 550+ kilometers (WLTP).

The R2 will initially be produced at the existing plant in Illinois. Rivian is putting the construction of the new plant in Georgia on hold for now. The company expects this step to save the 2.25 billion dollars in capital required for the market launch of the R2.

Rivian R3

The R3 is even smaller than the R2 and significantly less than 4.70 meters in length. It has the usual brand face at the front but differs from the R1S and R2 at the side and rear: The R3 has a rear window angled at almost 45 degrees, whereas it is very steep on the other Rivians.

That makes the R3 somewhat reminiscent of the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Due to the slightly raised off-road design, social media has also drawn parallels to the old Golf Cross Country. And with an additional version called the R3X, there must also be a performance variant.

The company still needs to provide further details on the smallest model; the focus for now is on the R2. Therefore, when exactly the R3 will follow is just as unknown as the markets in which the model will be sold. As the R2 will not be launched until 2026 at the earliest, it will probably be some time before the first R3 is actually delivered.

“I have never been more excited to launch new products, said Rivian Founder and CEO RJ Scaringe. “R2 and R3 are distinctly Rivian in terms of performance, capability, and usability, yet with pricing that makes them accessible to a lot of people.”

“Our design and engineering teams are extremely focused on driving innovation into not only the product features but also our approach to manufacturing to achieve dramatically lower costs. R2 provides buyers starting in the $ 45,000 price range with a much-needed choice with a thoroughly developed technology platform that is bursting with personality. I can’t wait to get these to customers.”