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Rivian starts R2 SUV production, aims 23k units

4/23/2026

27 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Rivian Launches R2

Rivian began production of its R2 SUV at Normal, Illinois on April 22, 2026, after an EF-1 tornado damaged the roof.
The Performance Launch Edition costs $57,990 plus $1,495 fee, with deliveries later this spring.
Rivian expects the R2 to deliver 22,000–23,000 units, contributing to its 2026 target of 62,000–67,000 vehicles.
Normal capacity will rise to 215,000 units per year with shifts in 2026-27, cutting costs by up to 72%.

Summary

Rivian Tests R2

Rivian will first deliver R2s to its own employees for internal testing.
COO Javier Varela said supply-chain disruptions are the biggest external challenge.
Pricing and delivery dates for Canada remain undisclosed, with deliveries not expected until 2027.
CFO Claire McDonough said the firm is encouraged by reservation volume, noting that the rollout could shift Rivian to a mass-market competitor.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. electric vehicle market surged in 2021, with sales rising 83% to over 400,000 units, driven by companies like Rivian. Founded in 2009, Rivian began delivering its R1T pickup in late 2021 and aims to produce 62,000 vehicles by 2026. However, production challenges, including supply-chain disruptions, reflect broader industry struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Rivian Launches R2

Rivian began production of its R2 SUV at Normal, Illinois on April 22, 2026, after an EF-1 tornado damaged the roof.
The Performance Launch Edition costs $57,990 plus $1,495 fee, with deliveries later this spring.
Rivian expects the R2 to deliver 22,000–23,000 units, contributing to its 2026 target of 62,000–67,000 vehicles.
Normal capacity will rise to 215,000 units per year with shifts in 2026-27, cutting costs by up to 72%.

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