Rivian has entered the final phase before launching the R2, its most important electric crossover yet. Designed as a more affordable alternative to the premium R1S and R1T models, the R2 aims to bring the brand into the mainstream market. Currently, the vehicle is undergoing final testing, including extreme conditions that engineers refer to as "multiple lifetimes of driving." The electric crossover is being evaluated in temperatures ranging from -42 to +50 degrees Celsius—from the frigid cold of Alaska to the scorching heat of Death Valley—as well as in sand, water, towing, and prolonged stress scenarios.

In terms of performance, the R2 comes close to its larger siblings: it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds and offers a range exceeding 300 miles. Rivian notes that the testing phase is yielding better results than anticipated, particularly regarding the reliability of the powertrain and the electronics' resilience to external factors.

With a starting price of $45,000, the R2 is Rivian's most affordable model and could serve as the brand's answer to the Model 3. The manufacturer expects this model to drive significant sales volume, as it is nearly half the price of the R1S and targets an audience that previously may not have considered premium electric crossovers.

However, Rivian is entering the market amid declining interest in electric vehicles and rising demand for hybrids—a challenge Tesla did not face in 2017 with the launch of the Model 3. Despite this, the R2 could become a pivotal product, potentially transforming Rivian from a niche manufacturer into a strong contender in the mass market.