Rivian is having a big moment. Last week, the company launched its new R2 SUV with a starting price of around $45,000 and about 300 miles of range with the larger battery pack. That’s roughly 40 percent cheaper than the brand’s larger three-row R1S, which debuted for model year 2022. In a surprise move, Rivian unveiled its even-smaller R3 compact hatchback SUV and performance-oriented R3X.
With investing analysts giving Rivian middling marks recently as EV demand appears to wane, the EV builder is looking for all the interest it can generate. The debut of the R3 and R3X wasn't the only surprise: The car's retro-inspired design was also a departure for the brand. Image: Kristin Shaw / PopSci During the reveal, Rivian also announced some key changes to its production plans.