Amit Saraswat 
New midsize advanced platform
The new midsize platform has been engineered to deliver a similar performance to the bigger Rivian models while keeping cost efficiency in mind. The new platform eliminates a few parts and uses high-pressure die casting in its construction. In addition, the new midsize platform underpins a structural battery unit, the top of which serves as a floor inside the cabin. The highly modular platform unpins both the R2 and R3 product lines, whereas the latter also offers a more performance-centric R3X model.
Rivian R2
Classic Rivian design
Both the new R2 and R3 product lines are unmistakably Rivian. The large LED lightbar incorporating vertical LED headlights and a connected tail light bar are the key takeaways for the Rivian model line. The R2 carries the butch SUV-inspired stance of the R1S and R1T whereas the smaller R3 product line follows the traditional hatchback body style, albeit with a jacked-up stance. The R2 also features powered quarter panels, enabling outside air to come inside the cabin, which is similar to the California mode in the Fisker Ocean.
Feature-rich interior
Rivian is known to offer quality interiors and based on the images shared by Rivian, the trend seems to continue even with the smaller crossovers. All Rivian models run on its independently developed network architecture, which facilitates frequent software updates. Apart from the advanced tech, the new Rivian crossovers also score high on space, with ample knee room for its passengers. It is worth noting that both the R2 and R3 product lines will be five-seater only.
Advanced powertrain
The new Rivian R2, R3 and R3X models come with advanced powertrains and a new battery pack. The new-gen battery pack in these models incorporate an all-new 4695 cell, which is said to offer significant improvements in energy density and output. As a result, both the R2 and R3 models are expected to go beyond 482km on a single charge. The new battery pack also supports high-output DC fast charging, enabling it to replenish charge from 10-80% in under 30 minutes.
All three Rivian models will offer a tri-motor setup in certain variants with the quickest configurations delivering a 0-60mph sprint in under 3 seconds. The lower trims will also offer the option of single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive options.
Market availability
Rivian is said to begin the production of the new R2 in the first half of 2026, followed by the R3 and R3X. The Rivian R2 will roll out from its existing Normal, Illinois manufacturing facility, instead of the yet-to-be-set-up manufacturing facility in Georgia, as planned earlier. This move will help Rivian to reduce its capital expenditure and leverage its existing manufacturing capacity, which is set to expand to 2,15,000 units every year.
