What's your R2 predictions?

[defcon888]

The reveal of the R2 is now official for March 7th. Rivian has teased the outline and some basic details, and there is certainly an expectation that Rivian will stick with a similar design language from the R1 series. Pricing and performance likely will not be anything surprising for Rivian fans, but there could very well be some interesting surprises. This thread isn't for the mundane (smaller oval headlights) type of predictions. Let's hear some genuinely interesting predictions for the R2.

I'll start with a removable roof panel option. Maybe not full Wrangler, but some removable hardtop roof capability. We saw a patent from Rivian for a removable roof system if I remember correctly, and there's no sign of it being made available for the R1.

I think it will be the same as the R1's but in a smaller package. I think they may skimp on some of the interior stuff as well as maybe having a smaller battery. It would be nice if:

1. The sunroof/moonroof would open and if not, then at least put a slider to block the sun.
2. Software update to improve the infotainment. Whether that is CP/AA that would be nice.
3. 110v outlets inside
4. a Tonneau cover that works.

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[SANZC02]

My guess, the initial R2 will be an SUV sized to compete with the Jeep Cherokee/Chevy Blazer market. Comes in around 47k without air suspension. Dual motor AWD, will come in around 6k pounds, get 3.25 miles per kWh, a battery around 90 kWh LFP and a range around 290 miles.

 

[srnyoung]

I agree, how can they compete with a $39.9K ICE pickup truck? They probably can't and won't even try.

If they can come up with a CUV that's more like a SUV than the Model Y is... and price it at $49K decently equipped it has a chance.

It seems there's lots of rich folks here (just look at the griping in any of the IRS Tax Credit threads about the "too low" $300K income limits) that love to spend other people's money saying they'll be happy to spend $69K for this smaller Rivian... well the overall American public is not willing to spend that much for a small CUV EV. For 2024 the average annual salary across the U.S. is $59,428... this is supposed to be the vehicle for "the people".

While you are right that salaries aren't keeping up with car prices, KBB/Cox says "the average buyer paid $48,284 for a new car between April and July."

I'd say a $49.9k EV that's eligible for a $7,500 rebate would be in the sweet spot for a high numbers of Americans who are more than happy to over-leverage themselves to look cool.

 

[Autolycus]

My guess, the initial R2 will be an SUV sized to compete with the Jeep Cherokee/Chevy Blazer market. Comes in around 47k without air suspension. Dual motor AWD, will come in around 6k pounds, get 3.25 miles per kWh, a battery around 90 kWh LFP and a range around 290 miles.

Getting to 3.25 miles/kWh would require too radically different a design for aero improvements.

 

[NY_Rob]

I'd say a $49.9k EV that's eligible for a $7,500 rebate would be in the sweet spot for a high numbers of Americans ....

I'd be up for that!!

 

[kyunam]

I can't afford R2.
I will wait for R3.

 

[trez63]

I'd say :

1) delete the air suspension
2) delete the grass roof
3) offer cloth seats
4) delete wood trim
5) delete the gear tunnel even in favor of a longer bed
6) offer a normal teannu
7) 2 motor
8) three range options: 300, 400, 500
9) price it at: $45k , $55k, $65k
10) very basic infotainment/sound for those who want to keep the cost down but with a $2-3k option for those who want upgraded sound and CarPlay/AA. But the upgrade should be a 10/10.
11) Make the Surround Camera optional at base trim to keep costs low, but standard on higher trim
12) Keep the HP and Torque modest but competitive, no one is expecting high numbers from a $45k ev

Bottom line, remove the complex stuff that might be hard to source and service. Just give people a good basic product they can afford and you'll sell a boat load of them and get the stock price up into the $30s.

 

[bummin]

Would like to see it evolve into something like the Tacoma/4 Runner. Sport model for those who know they live 95% on the pavement, and an off road version who love hitting the trails on the weekends.

Having something like a Torsen LSD unit on the rear of the sport and lockers like Jeep/Ranger Raptor/ZR2 available on off road version. If the hydraulic suspension could be adapted to regular springs, you get the control and articulation without anti roll bars.

Need 3 levels of interior options to hit all groups, greater option list with some service center installed options. I remember my early Toyota Hilux trucks would get the AC installed at the dealership if you wanted it. You could get on any level of truck for about $800 back in the 80's. Dodge is talking about creating a performance center at dealerships for their new EV's, think Rivian would do well with adding an accessory department to existing facilities.

 

[moosehead]

Absolutely agree. I suspect the price will suddenly come in at $65K

+1, but sure hope this is not the case. R2 by definition should not be an arms race.

 

[R1T-NotAJoke]

Getting to 3.25 miles/kWh would require too radically different a design for aero improvements.

Well by reducing the Frontal x-section area (Height and width), possible more taper on the rear can really help. Also smaller wheels.

 

[Zorg]

300 miles, dual motor at $50k would be nice. That is most likely a stretch. SUV will be less aero than an equivalent model Y, and therefore will require more batteries. Would buy one at $60K with 100KWh batteries that can go over 300 miles at hwy speed.

Also guessing that off-road capabilities will be limited but sufficient for your average fire road.

 

[solaskaze]

300 miles, dual motor at $50k would be nice. That is most likely a stretch. SUV will be less aero than an equivalent model Y, and therefore will require more batteries. Would buy one at $60K with 100KWh batteries that can go over 300 miles at hwy speed.

Also guessing that off-road capabilities will be limited but sufficient for your average fire road.

Here's a direct stab at that: so, below, a R1S is close to that lower blue curve.
Model Y is closer to the Yellow.
You lose 5%, maybe less 'cuz is Cd*A

 

[HeyEllwood]

Rivian IG dm earlier from the photo of inside one of their vehicles yesterday.
?

 

[Adamn]

Less prediction and more wish list. We know there's an SUV coming but I hope there's also a smaller R2T. What I would want in an R2T:

• 800v pack - 350+ mile option with AT tires
• NACS port
• Bi-directional charging and NEMA 14-50 outlet
• Heat pump
• Between Tacoma/Maverick size
• 1500+lb payload and 7500lb towing capacity
• Extended cab option
• Retain the gear tunnel and add a midgate to extend the bed.
• Spoiler redesign/removal so a topper or truck bed camper could properly fit on the bed
• $50k for the above specs
• Mini unicorn in the frunk to complete the fantasy.

 

[mkg3]

Its interesting that so many posts implies/wants R2 capability above and beyond the R1 Flagship vehicles for Rivian at the half of the price.

Some of the wants probably will make it in the 2nd gen R1, then followed by R2 thereafter.

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