Rivian R2 and R3: more compact electric SUVs arriving in Europe

Rivian is one of the electric car manufacturers who envy Tesla’s success. The brand has, however, launched into a slightly different niche, by developing models designed for adventure, perhaps precisely to attract a less tech-savvy clientele than those of Tesla.

The R1S and R1T were thus rather well received across the Atlantic. Rivian is nevertheless still far from having carved out an important place for itself on the market and the American manufacturer, notably supported by Amazon, is currently mainly relying on orders for electric delivery vans from the e-commerce giant.

The next step for Rivian is therefore to produce larger volumes, which is far from easy, talk to Tesla about it. The first condition to achieve this is to offer more accessible models. It is with a certain enthusiasm that the Rivian R2 was awaited, planned as a sort of more compact R1S.

Rivian R2: a reduced R1S

The promise is kept in terms of style, since the R2 is indeed very close to the R1S. However, its dimensions are significantly reduced, with a length of 4.72 m, almost 40 cm less than the R1S. A size which remains very bulky in absolute terms, equivalent to that of a Tesla Model Y (4.75 m long) for example.

We notably find the light strips at the front and rear, while the rear window can now be lowered to allow long objects to protrude, like on the Fisker Ocean.

The interior seems slightly less luxurious than that of the R1S, but takes care of its practical aspects with numerous storage spaces, including a second glove box.

If Rivian does not make it its main argument, on-board technology is not left out. Two large panels take place in the center of the dashboard and behind the steering wheel, while numerous radars and cameras will support Rivian’s ambition to make its model compatible with level 3 autonomous driving.

Rivian R3: the one we want to see in Europe

But the pleasant surprise, announced at the “one more thing” of Steve Jobs, is that Rivian is moving directly to the next stage of democratization with the presentation of the R3. This electric crossover, with a style halfway between a Volkswagen Golf Country and a Hyundai Ioniq 5, is therefore Rivian’s smallest model. The silhouette of the R3 is less massive than that of its big brothers and we imagine that it would allow the brand to better export, to Europe at random.

It is also available in a sporty R3X version with three electric motors, which is distinguished by wider wheels and greater ground clearance. Because yes, sport at Rivian is not reserved for asphalt roads. We would almost dare to compare this R3X to the legendary Lancia Delta HF Integrale, because of its influences from the world of rallying.

The interior of the Rivian R3 maintains a similar style and layout to other models in the lineup. The R3X version benefits from specific treatment, notably upholstery which seems to be inspired by the past.

You will have to be patient, especially in Europe

The Rivian R2 and R3 introduce a new structural battery platform, whose cells are cylindrical. They both announce more than 300 miles of autonomy, or nearly 483 km. For comparison, the Tesla Model Y Grande Autonomie has a range of 310 miles (nearly 499 km) according to the American EPA cycle, which translates into a range of 533 km on the European WLTP cycle.

Nothing exceptional then, and the charging times don’t particularly impress either. Both models should allow a charge of 10 to 80% in less than 30 minutes, without details on the accepted power. They are equipped with a NACS socket, popularized by Tesla in North America, but which requires the use of an adapter to connect to a CCS standard terminal, much more widespread in Europe. Let’s hope that Rivian adapts its models to our market by automatically equipping them with a CCS socket.

In addition to Rivian’s ability to increase its production, the prices of these new models will determine the manufacturer’s growth. Currently, the R1S and R1T start at $74,900 and $69,900 respectively in the United States and are not imported to Europe.

The arrival of the R2 is not expected until 2026 in North America and two years later on the Old Continent. The marketing of the R3 will take place immediately, but the market will therefore have evolved a lot by then. Between the arrival of Chinese brands and Tesla’s ever more competitive prices, nothing is decided for Rivian, despite its products, it must be admitted, being quite attractive.