The moment Rivian fans have been waiting for is almost here. This Thursday, March 12, the California-based automaker will officially take the stage at SXSW 2026 in Austin, Texas, to unveil the production version of its highly anticipated R2 midsize SUV. While prices, trims, and colors have leaked, we should find out more details straight from Rivian.
The R2 represents a make-or-break moment for the brand. Rivian is banking on this vehicle and its new autonomy stack to lead it to profitability by the end of 2026. Built on an entirely new, lighter platform, the R2 is designed to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y.
Update: Rivian has officially announced the R2 trims and options!
What to Expect
Based on insights from Rivian watcher @Hilbe, we have a solid idea of what to expect from the reveal. The highlight will be the automaker sharing the full specifications for the R2 and what variants it will be available in, along with the configurator launch, where we should see options for paint, wheels, and interior finishes.
Launch Configurations: The first trim to roll off the line is expected to be the dual-motor, all-wheel drive Launch Edition.
Pricing: While prices and trim levels have now been leaked, it’ll be officially announced tomorrow. While the R2 is rumored to start around $45,000 for the single-motor base model, the Launch Edition will carry a $57,990 price tag.
Colors: We also expect Rivian to announce available colors, at least on the Launch Edition. The color options appear to have leaked as well, but they may not all be available at launch.
Performance & Upgrades: Expect details on a performance upgrade for the 656-horsepower dual-motor setup, which hits 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. There should also be an "All-Terrain" package and premium audio options.
Utility Features: Look for more info on the rear window that rolls into the tailgate and front seats that fold flat for car camping.
Autonomy: Initial R2 models are expected to feature Rivian’s Gen 2 autonomy hardware (no LiDAR). Starting in late 2026, Rivian will start producing R2 models with Gen 3 hardware, including LiDAR and the company’s custom RAP1 chips.
Tesla Compatibility: The R2 will feature a native NACS port, granting it access to Tesla Superchargers out of the box.
While the hype is high, there are some things you shouldn't count on seeing this Thursday. We aren't expecting immediate R2 deliveries, as volume production in Illinois isn't slated until mid-2026.
Additionally, don't expect current reservations to convert to firm orders just yet, nor should you expect R2 accessories to hit Rivian’s Gear Shop immediately. While the focus is strictly on the R2, Rivian could always surprise us with new glimpses of the R3 or R3X, though new models like an "R2T" or "R1X" remain unlikely for this specific event.
When is the Event
The R2 unveiling is scheduled for Thursday, March 12, 2026. This date is strategically chosen to pre-empt the start of Rivian's "Electric Roadhouse" showcase at SXSW, where the company will later offer public R2 rides to attendees.
The event is expected to start at 9:30 a.m. PT. This is the expected start time, as Rivian has yet to officially announce it themselves.
This is the following times around the world:
9:30 a.m. Pacific Time
12:30 p.m. Eastern Time
4:30 p.m. UTC
4:30 p.m. — London, England
5:30 p.m. — Berlin, Germany
3:30 a.m. (next day) — Sydney, Australia
How to Watch
Rivian is expected to livestream the event directly from its SXSW hub in Austin. The company typically shares a link on its social media channels and website closer to the start time. We will add that link here as soon as it becomes available, so stay tuned for that and our full coverage of the R2 unveiling.
Update: It looks like Rivian may not stream the event after all, but if that changes, we’ll have the link available here. We’ll have continued coverage and everything Rivian announces at the event tomorrow morning.
Update 2: Rivian decided not to stream the event and instead posted content on their site and social media pages. They have officially announced the R2 lineup, which lines up with the leaks. The official trims, prices, and options are available here.
This event marks the beginning of Rivian's transition from a niche, high-end truck maker to a mass-market player. If the R2 lives up to the specs we've seen so far, the electric SUV market is about to get a lot more interesting.
