Rivian R2 EV on track for 2026 launch with Illinois plant expansion

Rivian advances its Illinois plant expansion for R2 EV production, targeting 2026. The $45K midsize SUV aims for over 300 miles range. Learn more about Rivian's plans.

Rivian is steadily moving forward with the launch of its new electric vehicle, the R2, while expanding its production capacity in Normal, Illinois. Construction is running slightly ahead of schedule, with the harsh winter failing to slow down the progress. The new 1.1-million-square-foot building will house the body and general assembly lines dedicated to the R2.

According to Tony Sanger, Rivian’s VP of production facilities, the structure is already going vertical. The walls are complete, the steel framework is 70% done, and over 60% of the roof decking is finished. Interior work has already begun, and equipment installation is expected to start soon. Once completed, the plant’s production capacity will rise from 150,000 to 215,000 vehicles annually.

The R2 marks a significant milestone for Rivian. As a midsize electric SUV, it’s positioned to be more affordable than the current R1 lineup, with a starting price of around $45,000 — nearly half the cost of the R1T and R1S. The vehicle will come in several powertrain configurations, including a rear-wheel-drive base model and a high-performance three-motor AWD version. Rivian states that the top-tier model will be capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under three seconds. The top battery option is expected to deliver over 300 miles of range, making it ideal for long-distance travel and adventures.

The expansion also includes the construction of a new high-speed test track, set to open this spring, replacing the previous one that was dismantled. Meanwhile, Rivian has already showcased the first R2 body coated with e-coat. CEO RJ Scaringe hinted that the new model might bring back the brand’s signature Launch Green color, originally inspired by the early R1 models.

Looking ahead, Rivian plans to scale R2 production at its upcoming Georgia facility, which is scheduled to begin operations in 2028. The project has received conditional approval for a $6.6 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy, aimed at supporting the plant’s development. Once fully operational, the factory is expected to produce up to 400,000 electric vehicles annually, including future models like the smaller R3 and the sporty R3X.

With the R2, Rivian is positioning itself strongly in the competitive midsize EV market. Facing rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, Rivian’s ambitious project could play a key role in shaping the future of affordable electric adventure vehicles. Production of the R2 is slated to begin in the first half of 2026.

Source: electrek.co