The first public customers are now taking delivery of the R2, Rivian’s mid-size electric SUV designed to bring Rivian’s rugged identity to a significantly wider buyer pool. The deliveries, which kicked off this week, follow an internal employee delivery phase that began in April. Simultaneously, Rivian opened order invitations on a rolling basis to existing R2 reservation holders — a group that deposited $100 refundable reservations in the two-plus years since the R2’s Laguna Beach unveiling. “I am really proud of the work our team poured into creating R2,” said RJ Scaringe, Rivian’s founder and CEO. “I can’t wait for customers to experience this vehicle.” A Lighter, More Maneuverable Rivian The R2 is built on an all-new mid-size platform, and the numbers tell a clear story about the vehicle’s intent. At nearly 2,000 pounds lighter than the R1 lineup and riding on a shorter 115.6-inch wheelbase, the R2 is engineered to be nimble in urban environments without abandoning the off-road credibility that defines the brand. Ground clearance comes in at 9.6 inches — class-leading for a mid-size SUV — with a 25-degree approach angle and 26-degree departure angle. Interior space is generous for the segment. Front headroom measures 40.9 inches, rear legroom 40.4 inches, and the 40/20/40 folding rear seat accommodates long cargo like skis or lumber. Total storage, with seats folded, reaches 90.1 cubic feet — enough, Rivian says, for five large suitcases, three backpacks and a stroller. Performance First, More Trims to Follow The first configuration available to order is the R2 Performance with Launch Package, starting at $57,990 before taxes and fees. It comes standard with Autonomy+, Rivian’s L2+ hands-free driver assistance system covering 3.5 million miles of roads across the U.S. and Canada — a $2,500 value included at no extra cost with the Launch Package.