Rivian to Deliver First R2 SUVs on June 9

Rivian has announced that the first customers of its new R2 SUV will receive their vehicles on June 9. The electric automaker has been intensifying its efforts to launch the R2 in recent months, positioning it as a more affordable option for a broader market compared to its current R1 lineup. The R2 will initially be available in a trim that starts at just under $60,000.

However, Rivian has plans to introduce a 'standard' version priced at $48,490 in 2027. The company has also teased the possibility of an even more affordable version, starting around $45,000, which is expected to arrive late next year. This price point has been promoted by Rivian since the R2's reveal in 2024.

Rivian's expectations for the R2 are high, with founder and CEO RJ Scaringe describing it as 'maybe the most important thing we've launched to date.' The company is aiming for an extremely fast ramp-up, with a goal of delivering as many as 25,000 vehicles by the end of this year. The R2, along with its hatchback sibling, the R3, is crucial to Rivian's plans to turn a profit for the first time since its founding in 2009. The introduction of the R2 and R3 models marks a significant milestone for Rivian as it seeks to expand its market reach and achieve financial sustainability.

With the R2's competitive pricing and features, Rivian is poised to make a substantial impact in the electric vehicle market. The company's aggressive production targets and ambitious plans for profitability highlight its commitment to growth and innovation in the EV sector.