Rivian revealed the specs and pricing details for its pivotal R2 SUV on Thursday, and the company also finally answered a long-burning question: When will customers be able to buy the promised $45,000 base model' That answer is 'late 2027,' according to the company's press materials. And there's a catch. The language Rivian uses now is that the base model R2 will be 'starting around $45,000.' That's a notable change from how the company was recently promoting that the R2 would be 'starting at $45,000' on its website. (Emphasis mine.) Also, a lot has changed since Rivian first revealed the R2 in March 2024. The $7,500 federal EV tax credit is gone. Legacy automakers have stopped buying regulatory credits from companies like Rivian, effectively ending a stream of what was ostensibly free money pouring into its coffers. President Trump's chaotic tariffs have increased the cost of components and materials Rivian uses to make its EVs. Sales of its R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV declined in...
learn more
