- Rivian R2 prototype has been spied testing practically 18 months after its preliminary reveal.
- The SUV encompasses a new midsize platform and can supply over 300 miles of vary.
- Prototype has rugged wheels and a rear window that rolls down like a facet window.
After making a robust impression with its first wave of EVs, Rivian is setting its sights on the broader market. The R2, first launched in March of final 12 months, is positioned as a extra accessible choice within the lineup. Whereas it was initially revealed as an idea, it’s solely now that the R2 has been noticed present process real-world testing in prototype type.
This mannequin may play a pivotal function in Rivian’s future, marking a turning level in its efforts to maneuver past area of interest attraction and into the mainstream.
Learn: The 2026 Rivian R2 Seems to be Even Higher Up Shut
As Rivian has lengthy favored to do issues somewhat bit in another way, this prototype is not like others we’ve seen from a legacy carmaker. Relatively than utilizing a standard black and white camouflage wrap, Rivian has created a particular camo wrap impressed by the outside, crammed with timber and lakes. It’s eye-catching, however does little to cover the general form and design of the R2’s physique panels.
Acquainted Design, With a Few Tweaks
Unsurprisingly, the design is essentially equivalent to the automobile previewed 18 months in the past. Meaning it retains many acquainted Rivian design traits, together with the headlights and thick entrance and rear mild bars, in addition to the rugged bumpers and fender flares.
Apparently, this prototype has a charging flap on the driving force’s facet, whereas final 12 months’s present automotive had the charging flap on the passenger facet. If Rivian is wise, it’d add charging flaps to either side, however our spy photographers weren’t capable of nab any photographs of the passenger facet, so it’s unclear if Rivian will do that.
Baldauf
A Sensible, Out of doors-Pleasant Contact
One of many extra attention-grabbing options seen on this prototype is the rear window, which will be lowered in the identical manner because the facet home windows. It was lowered because the automobile exited the testing facility, suggesting it might be a normal perform.
This model of the R2 additionally rides on new, blacked-out wheels paired with BFGoodrich Path-Terrain tires, giving it a extra rugged stance in comparison with the idea.
Underpinning the R2 is Rivian’s new midsize platform, and the flagship mannequin ought to supply up greater than 300 miles (483 km) of vary. Single-, dual-, and tri-motor variations can even be out there. The R2 will probably be constructed on the firm’s expanded manufacturing unit in Regular, Illinois, in addition to its deliberate multi-billion-dollar web site in Georgia.