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Rivian kicks off public R2 deliveries and invites reservation-holders
Rivian has quietly moved the R2 midsize electric SUV from prototype testing to customer driveways. After first showing the R2 in spring 2024, the American EV maker announced in June 2026 that public deliveries have begun and that reservation holders will soon receive invitations to configure and place their orders.
If you reserved an R2 a while back, don’t be surprised if an email pops up soon — Rivian says invitations will be rolled out continuously and that the company expects to have everyone invited by the end of June. The allocation will consider factors such as reservation date and delivery location, and current Rivian owners will get accelerated delivery windows.
From long-term testing to Normal, Illinois production
Rivian spent more than two years refining the R2, driving prototypes tens of thousands of miles across varied conditions to validate design and functionality. Production is now underway at Rivian’s Normal, Illinois plant. The first units built in recent months were employee deliveries in April, while customer shipments are starting with the higher-spec R2 Performance with Launch Package.
How reservations convert to orders
The ordering process will be familiar to anyone who’s bought a modern EV: once you receive an invitation, log into your Rivian account, choose trim, paint, wheels and interior options, and confirm the order. Rivian projects a delivery lead time of up to six weeks from order placement — a competitive turnaround compared with many EV launches.
What’s available now — and what’s coming
The first R2 variants to reach customers will be the R2 Performance with Launch Package, priced at $57,990. That package adds several premium features including Autonomy+ driver-assist options, semi-active suspension and a factory tow package with a two-inch hitch and 4,400 lb towing capacity.
- Powertrain: Dual motors, 656 hp and 609 lb-ft of torque
- Performance: 0–60 mph in about 3.6 seconds
- Range: Up to 330 miles (531 km)
- Key extras: Autonomy+, semi-active suspension, integrated tow receiver
Later this year Rivian will add the R2 Premium ($53,990). In 2027, full-volume models will follow, including the R2 Standard RWD Long Range at $48,490 and the base R2 Standard at $44,990. That staggered rollout mirrors Rivian’s typical approach of launching higher-margin trims first to fine-tune production before scaling.
Market positioning and what the R2 means for Rivian
With the R2, Rivian is aiming for mainstream buyers who want a compact-to-midsize electric SUV with performance and off-road credibility. The R2’s combination of rapid acceleration, respectable range and towing capability puts it squarely in competition with other midsize EV crossovers, while Rivian continues to emphasize durability and outdoor-focused features.
For reservation-holders, the important takeaways are simple: watch your email, be ready to configure when invited, and expect faster delivery if you already own a Rivian. The company’s stated plan to invite everyone by month-end should clear up a lot of uncertainty for those on the waiting list.
Quick highlights
- Public R2 deliveries have started after prototype testing since 2024.
- Invitations to configure orders will be sent on a rolling basis through June.
- First customer trim: R2 Performance with Launch Package ($57,990).
- Projected delivery time: up to six weeks after ordering.
Whether you reserved an R2 months ago or are following Rivian’s production ramp with interest, the next few weeks should bring clarity: configuration invites are on the way, and for many buyers, the R2 will soon be more than a promise — it will be parked in the driveway.
Source: autoevolution
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