Rivian has unveiled its new midsize platform for its R2 and R3 product lines.

The new platform consolidates and eliminates parts due 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, Rivian said.

The R2 and R3 also use Rivian’s drive unit platform and internally developed network architecture, computer topology, and software stack.

The R2 is Rivian’s new midsize five-seat SUV. The R3 is a midsize crossover that Rivian says delivers on performance, off-road capability, passenger comfort, and storage. The R3X is a performance variant of the R3 that offers more dynamic abilities on- and off-road.

Rivian R2

The R2 also comes with a powered rear glass that fully drops into the liftgate for carrying all types of gear and an open-air driving experience. Other features include first- and second-row seating that folds flat for gear, cargo, and car camping.

Rivian R2

Both models come with two options in battery size. The larger pack reaches more than 300 miles of range on a single charge and offers 0-60 mph acceleration in under three seconds for the quickest powertrain configuration, according to Rivian.

Pricing for the R2 is expected to start at around $45,000, and the R3 will be priced below that, which Rivian believes makes both models accessible to more people.

“Rivian’s development teams have been intensely focused on cost through manufacturing, design innovation, and robust supply chain development,” Rivian said in a news release. “R2 is available to reserve today in the U.S. for $100 with deliveries expected to begin in the first half of 2026. R3 and R3X deliveries will start after R2 to ensure a smooth launch and rapid ramp of R2.”

Other features of the R2 and R3 include:

• • Three motor options: Single-motor (RWD), dual-motor (AWD), and tri-motor (two motors in rear and one in front);
  • Structural battery: Using an all-new 4695 cell that offers significant improvements in energy density and output estimated to deliver over 300 miles of range on a single charge for both R2 and R3;
  • DC fast charging: Compatible with both North American Charging Standard (NACS) and CCS (with an adapter) to charge from 10-80% in less than 30 minutes;
  • Self-driving: Rivian’s new perception stack includes 11 cameras, five radars and a more powerful compute platform, which the OEM says will provide dramatically enhanced autonomous capabilities; and
  • Improvement-capable and expanding features: As with all Rivian vehicles, the automaker has developed its network architecture, topology of computers, and associated full software platform to facilitate frequent software updates.

Rivian R2 interior

“I have never been more excited to launch new products — 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,” said RJ Scaringe, Rivian founder and CEO, in a news release. “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.”

Rivian R3

Rivian said the R2 and R3 demonstrate how its design language adapts to different vehicle sizes and form factors.

“Our R1 flagship vehicles served as our handshake with the world with R2 and R3 our obsessive goal is to stay true to Rivian’s product attributes while making our products accessible to a lot more people,” said Jeff Hammoud, Rivian chief design officer, in the release. “Through a tight integration of hardware, software and human-centered design, we designed R2 by balancing form with function, while building on our inviting and iconic design language.”

Rivian R3 interior 

Rivian said R2’s design prioritizes:

• • Adventure: Four passenger windows and rear powered glass drop fully and powered rear quarter windows vent to invite the outside in, creating a unique open-air driving experience. The R3 is designed in a sporty hatch style;
  • Space: Passenger legroom and cargo room are also focus points complete with fold-down seats, front and rear trunks, and additional interior storage; and
  • Refined Touches: Rivian’s new steering wheel comes with integrated haptic control dials with easy-to-clean textiles and finishes.

Rivian R3X

Rivian plans to start production of R2 in its existing Normal, Illinois manufacturing facility so it can launch the R2 earlier with a considerable reduction in required capital to do so, the OEM said.

Capacity will be expanded at the site to 215,000 R1T, R1S, EDV, RCV, and R2 vehicles per year. Rivian’s Georgia plant remains an extremely important part of its strategy to scale production of R2 and R3, according to the release. The timing for resuming construction is expected to be later to focus on the Illinois R2 launch.

Images

Featured image: Rivian R3

All images provided by Rivian