The Rivian R2 became the electric vehicle maker’s best-selling model in the third quarter of 2026, just months after its June launch. The SUV outsold Rivian’s other models, including the R1T pickup, R1S SUV, and commercial delivery van.
Rivian did not disclose how many R2 SUVs it sold. However, the company confirmed that the model accounted for much of its quarterly delivery growth.
Rivian delivered 19,248 vehicles across its entire lineup, up approximately 46% from 13,201 a year earlier. That total includes all Rivian models, not just the R2.
Rivian R2 Drives Third-Quarter Delivery Growth
Rivian launched the R2 in June as its more affordable SUV, targeting a broader market than its premium R1 vehicles. The company has prioritized rapidly increasing production at its Normal, Illinois, factory.
Rivian produced 19,751 vehicles in the third quarter, up from 12,613 the previous quarter. Deliveries rose from 12,194 to 19,248, up about 58%.
Much of that improvement came from adding a second production shift. Rivian had previously reported record third-quarter deliveries without identifying the R2 as its leading model.
The company generated about $2.2 billion in quarterly revenue, up 38% year over year. Its net loss narrowed to $913 million from approximately $1.2 billion in the same period last year.
Rivian Raises 2026 Delivery Forecast Again
Following the R2’s early sales performance, Rivian increased its annual delivery guidance to 67,000–70,000 vehicles. Its previous forecast called for 65,000–70,000 deliveries.
This marks Rivian’s second guidance increase of 2026. The company raised its forecast in July after stronger second-quarter production and deliveries.
Rivian is now positioned to exceed 50,000 annual deliveries after three years of struggling to move beyond that level. Scaling the R2 is central to its effort to increase sales and improve profitability.
The growth comes despite the $7,500 federal EV tax credit expiring in 2025. Changes to U.S. electric vehicle policies have also prompted several established automakers to redirect investment toward gasoline-powered and hybrid models.
Rivian believes the R2 can attract buyers seeking more electric SUV options. In its shareholder letter, the company described the vehicle as an attractively priced choice for everyday use and a potential driver of long-term growth.
More Affordable Rivian R2 Models Are Coming
The R2 initially launched at just under $60,000. A Premium version starting at $53,990 is expected later in 2026, followed by less expensive configurations in 2027.
The lowest-priced version is expected to start at $44,990. Those additional trims will expand Rivian’s addressable market as it continues increasing production at its Illinois facility.
