Rivian has started production of its new all-electric vehicle named R2. The company considers this a significant step before customer deliveries. Rivian states that the production of the R2 vehicle is taking place at its factory in Normal, Illinois, USA.
The editorial office reports that Rivian has announced the start of production for its R2 all-electric vehicle for customers at its Normal, Illinois factory. The commencement of production is considered a critical milestone for the company, as customer deliveries are planned for later in the spring of this year. Investors will be monitoring the company's steps towards increasing production in the near future.
Rivian expects the R2 to attract more buyers and help the company fulfill its promises to reduce costs and achieve profitability in the coming years. The company states that the R2 is an updated and more affordable electric vehicle, similar to the flagship R1 SUV. According to Rivian's classification, the R2 is the first model of its mid-size vehicles, a performance version priced at 58,000 US dollars with the “Launch Package,” which includes a 330-mile range, dual motors, special features, and “lifetime” access to the Autonomy+ advanced driver-assistance system.
Following Rivian's announcement regarding R2 production, less than a week prior, a tornado damaged a section of the factory used for R2 parts storage and logistics. Rivian plans to announce its first-quarter results on April 30, 2026, and provide investors with updated information on R2 production. Rivian confirms that it has made statements about introducing a cheaper, entry-level version of the vehicle starting at 45,000 US dollars, but that model is expected to be less profitable and will not be available for sale until the end of 2027. The company's current vehicles start at prices above 70,000 US dollars.
Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe was seen on April 22, 2026, rolling the first customer-ready R2 electric SUV off the assembly line at the company's Normal, Illinois factory. This event symbolizes the start of the production phase in the company's preparation for customer deliveries. The company also notes that expectations regarding the ramp-up of R2 production will be one of the main topics of investor attention.