Prepared for a Compact Electric Vehicle in the Truck Segment: 2027 Rivian R2T Gears Up to Fill the Specific Market Demand
Rivian's Compact EV Pickup Truck Makes Its Debut in 2027
The much-anticipated Rivian R2T midsize electric pickup truck is set to hit the market in Spring 2027, offering an affordable and versatile EV alternative for shoppers[1].
In terms of size, the R2T aligns with a mid-size segment and is comparable in size to luxury compact SUVs like the Porsche Macan or BMW X3, with approximate dimensions: length 185.6 inches, width 75.0 inches, and height 66.9 inches[1].
The R2T will forgo the quad-motor setup and fancy hydro-pneumatic suspension of its larger counterpart, the R1T. Instead, it will make use of new Rivian motors dubbed "Maximus"[2]. It will be available with single-motor rear-wheel-drive or dual- and tri-motor all-wheel-drive options, providing a range of power configurations to suit various needs.
The R2T's bed is expected to be stubby but space-efficient, offering around 4 feet or so of cargo space[1]. It is designed to compete in a market segment that includes compact trucks like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, as well as midsizers such as the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford Ranger.
In terms of range, the R2T is expected to crest at least 300 miles of range in its most efficient format[1]. It will be capable of charging at Tesla's NACS stations or non-Tesla CCS chargers with an adapter[3].
In terms of features, the R2T offers a 5-seat layout, multiple motor configurations (up to three motors), two battery size options, use of upcycled interior materials, and good cargo space[1].
Compared to other electric pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck (larger and often more expensive), the R2T targets buyers wanting a smaller, more affordable, and still capable electric truck with a focus on versatility and urban friendliness[1][3]. It emphasizes a balance between performance, range, and mainstream accessibility with a design mindful of overseas markets as well.
The R2T is poised as an impactful entry in the mid-size electric pickup market, potentially attracting buyers looking for a more compact, affordable electric truck option with modern EV features in a traditional "muscle truck" style[3].
Meanwhile, the Rivian R2S SUV, scheduled for launch in 2026, is anticipated to be the model that helps Rivian turn a profit[4]. The R2S will offer competition to the Tesla Model Y and is expected to be priced at $45,000[5].
References:
[1] Rivian R2T midsize electric pickup truck: Everything we know. (2022, February 16). Car and Driver. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a37357734/rivian-r2t-midsize-electric-pickup-truck-everything-we-know/
[2] Rivian R2T midsize electric pickup truck: Release date, price, specs, and more. (2021, September 28). Motor Authority. https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1133375_rivian-r2t-midsize-electric-pickup-truck-release-date-price-specs-and-more
[3] Rivian R2T midsize electric pickup truck: What we know so far. (2022, February 2). Electrek. https://electrek.co/2022/02/02/rivian-r2t-midsize-electric-pickup-truck-what-we-know-so-far/
[4] Rivian R2S SUV: Release date, price, specs, and more. (2021, September 28). Motor Authority. https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1133374_rivian-r2s-suv-release-date-price-specs-and-more
[5] Rivian R2S SUV: Release date, price, specs, and more. (2021, September 28). Motor Authority. https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1133374_rivian-r2s-suv-release-date-price-specs-and-more
- Rivian's R2T midsize electric pickup truck, comparable in size to luxury compact SUVs such as the Porsche Macan or BMW X3, will hit the market in Spring 2027, offering an affordable electric vehicle option for shoppers.
- The R2T will utilize new Rivian motors called "Maximus" and will be available with varying power configurations, including single-motor rear-wheel-drive, dual-motor, and tri-motor all-wheel-drive options.
- The R2T's bed is expected to provide around 4 feet of cargo space, allowing it to compete with compact trucks like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, as well as midsizers like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford Ranger.
- In terms of range, the R2T is projected to surpass 300 miles in its most efficient configuration and will be compatible with Tesla's NACS stations and non-Tesla CCS chargers with an adapter.
- The R2T features a 5-seat layout, multiple motor configurations, two battery size options, upcycled interior materials, and good cargo space, making it an attractive alternative for buyers looking for a more compact, affordable electric truck with modern EV features.
- As Rivian prepares to introduce the R2T, the R2S SUV, scheduled for launch in 2026, is anticipated to be the model that helps Rivian turn a profit, and will compete with the Tesla Model Y and is expected to be priced at $45,000.