Rivian officially began production of the R2 electric SUV at its Normal, Illinois, manufacturing facility. This mid-sized, lower-cost vehicle targets the mass market to drive long-term company profitability.
Manufacturing commenced five days after an EF-1 tornado caused significant structural damage to the R2 production building. The storm collapsed sections of the roof and walls, forcing a temporary operational pause.
CEO RJ Scaringe confirmed the first R2 deliveries to employees remain scheduled for this spring.