Affordable Rivian R2 targets Europe, rivaling Tesla Model Y
Rivian R2 to challenge Tesla Model Y in Europe from 2026
Affordable Rivian R2 targets Europe, rivaling Tesla Model Y
Rivian's R2 crossover targets Europe with RWD/AWD, 480+ km range, and a $45,000 price from 2026. Built on a VW-linked platform, it aims to rival Tesla Model Y.
2025-09-26T11:31:16+03:00
2025-09-26T11:31:16+03:00
2025-09-26T11:31:16+03:00
U.S. startup Rivian is gearing up for a European push with the new R2 crossover, a direct shot at Tesla’s Model Y. The 4.7-meter model was engineered for export from the outset and is slated to reach the U.S. market in the first half of 2026 with prices starting at $45,000 (around 3.8 million rubles). A European rollout will follow, including right-hand-drive versions for the UK.The R2 will be offered with rear-wheel drive and a single electric motor as standard, or an optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. Its range is promised to exceed 480 km, positioning it among the strongest contenders in the segment. The smaller R3 hatchback and the sportier R3X are still awaiting launch dates.Notably, the R2 sits on Rivian’s second-generation technology platform, which also features in the company’s partnership with Volkswagen. The nearly $6 billion joint program is designed to unify electronics, lower costs, and bring in new AI-driven solutions. Volkswagen’s first models on this architecture are planned for 2026.CEO Robert J. Scaringe emphasized that the brand intends to position the R2 as affordable yet distinctive, keeping a careful balance between price and premium feel. The overall strategy reads as a deliberate bid to challenge the class leaders without abandoning attainability, and Rivian ultimately aims to claim up to 10% of the market in the U.S. and Europe.
Rivian R2, Tesla Model Y rival, Europe launch 2026, $45,000 price, 480 km range, RWD, AWD, Volkswagen partnership, second-generation platform, AI features, right-hand-drive UK, Rivian R3, R3X
2025
Michael Powers
news
Rivian R2 to challenge Tesla Model Y in Europe from 2026
Rivian's R2 crossover targets Europe with RWD/AWD, 480+ km range, and a $45,000 price from 2026. Built on a VW-linked platform, it aims to rival Tesla Model Y.
Michael Powers, Editor
U.S. startup Rivian is gearing up for a European push with the new R2 crossover, a direct shot at Tesla’s Model Y. The 4.7-meter model was engineered for export from the outset and is slated to reach the U.S. market in the first half of 2026 with prices starting at $45,000 (around 3.8 million rubles). A European rollout will follow, including right-hand-drive versions for the UK.
The R2 will be offered with rear-wheel drive and a single electric motor as standard, or an optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. Its range is promised to exceed 480 km, positioning it among the strongest contenders in the segment. The smaller R3 hatchback and the sportier R3X are still awaiting launch dates.
Notably, the R2 sits on Rivian’s second-generation technology platform, which also features in the company’s partnership with Volkswagen. The nearly $6 billion joint program is designed to unify electronics, lower costs, and bring in new AI-driven solutions. Volkswagen’s first models on this architecture are planned for 2026.
CEO Robert J. Scaringe emphasized that the brand intends to position the R2 as affordable yet distinctive, keeping a careful balance between price and premium feel. The overall strategy reads as a deliberate bid to challenge the class leaders without abandoning attainability, and Rivian ultimately aims to claim up to 10% of the market in the U.S. and Europe.
