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Rivian, an American technology and automaker company, announced the all-new R2, a mid-size electric SUV. The company has stated that deliveries of the R2 Performance with Launch Package SUV will start in Spring 2026. Premium configurations or mid-tier will begin deliveries in late 2026 and the standard base configuration will start deliveries in 2027. What is a R2 Performance with Launch Package SUV? According to RJ Scaringe, Founder and CEO of Rivian: “R2 embodies so many of our learnings that we have accumulated—the passion and attention to detail from our team is visible everywhere.” The R2 offers the unmistakably Rivian DNA SUV to a broader audience without a compromise in capabilities. All prices do not include taxes and fees at time of purchase. Estimated ranges will vary depending on selected options / trim, preliminary estimates are based on the EPA test cycle and not official values as of this writing. R2 Performance (Available Spring 2026) Debuting with Launch Package starting at $57,990 (available for limited time), the Performance trim is the most capable R2 on- and off-road. This dual-motor AWD variant delivers a staggering 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque, capable of launching R2 from 0-60 mph in as quick as 3.6 seconds and offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles. At this price point, the R2 Performance competes directly with the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 priced from $58,955. Included on Performance: Semi-active suspension Esker Silver exterior Compass Yellow brake calipers and exterior badging All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Black Crater Signature Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel 12-way power driver & passenger seats with lumbar adjustment Rivian Premium Audio (9 speakers, 2 midwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 2 subwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 975W) Rear drop glass Dynamic Adventure Lighting with Adaptive High Beams, Matrix LED headlights Rivian Torch flashlight in the driver door Integrated tow hooks Drive modes: All-Purpose, Conserve, Snow, All-Terrain, Rally, Soft Sand, Sport and Launch Mode 21" Liquid Tungsten All-Season wheels Launch Package Extras In addition to all Performance features, the limited-edition Launch Package includes: Autonomy+&sup5; for lifetime of the vehicle Special Rivian Green anodized Key Fob Exclusive option of Launch Green exterior color (paid upgrade) Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity Optional on Performance Autonomy+ one-time fee or monthly subscription 20" Black Sand All-Terrain wheels Borealis, Catalina Cove, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight exterior colors All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Coastal Cloud Signature Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity R2 Premium (Available Late 2026) Starting at $53,990, the Premium trim is elevated inside and out. Featuring a dual-motor AWD setup that produces 450 horsepower and 537 lb-ft of torque, a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, and an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles. Included on Premium: Esker Silver exterior All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Black Crater Signature Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel 12-way power driver & passenger seats with lumbar adjustment Rivian Premium Audio (9 speakers, 2 midwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 2 subwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 975W) Rear drop glass Dynamic Adventure Lighting with Adaptive High Beams, Matrix LED headlights Rivian Torch flashlight in the driver door Integrated tow hooks Drive modes: All-Purpose, Conserve, Snow, All-Terrain and Sport 20" Bicolor Carbon All-Season wheels Optional on Premium Autonomy+ one-time fee or monthly subscription 21" Liquid Tungsten All-Season wheels Catalina Cove, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight exterior colors All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Coastal Cloud Signature Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity R2 Standard (Available First Half 2027) Starting at $48,490, the Standard trim redefines expectations for the mid-size SUV segment. The RWD Long Range configuration of Standard trim will be available in the first half of 2027. This variant delivers 350 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque, a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds and boasts a Rivian-estimated range of up to 345 miles. Shoppers comparing affordable electric SUVs should also check out the 2026 IONIQ 5 with its recent price reduction. Included on Standard: Esker Silver exterior Single-motor RWD Long Range All-new Black Crater interior Heated front seats and heated steering wheel 12-way power driver seat with lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat Standard audio (5 speakers, 2 midwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 525W) Drive modes: All-Purpose, Conserve, Snow and Sport 19" Machined Graphite All-Season wheels Optional on Standard Autonomy+ one-time fee or monthly subscription Dual-motor AWD with 450hp, 537 lb-ft of torque Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight exterior colors 20" Bicolor Carbon All-Season wheels Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity An additional R2 Standard variant will arrive in late 2027 starting around $45,000, offering 275+ miles of estimated range. More details on this vehicle will be shared closer to production launch. Colors and Customization Rivian has a selection of new colors that go with the existing Midnight, Glacier White, Forest Green, Borealis and Launch Green (available for a limited time with Launch Package). Catalina Cove: Exclusive to R2, like the waters that surround Catalina Island, this metallic paint shifts from deep Pacific blues to translucent greens in the light. Esker Silver: Inspired by the winding ridges of gravel and sand that glaciers leave behind, fine metallic flakes bring depth to this shimmering silver. Half Moon Grey: This metallic grey is inspired by the coastal cliffs of Half Moon Bay — layers of granite and sandstone shifting in warm light. Wheels and Tires Customization of one's ride is supported with a selection of wheels and tire packages, all are a 32" overall diameter. 19" Machined Graphite All-Season: Aluminum wheels with a bright machined finish and graphite metallic pockets. With Pirelli all-season tires for versatile performance in all kinds of conditions. 20" Bicolor Carbon All-Season: Aluminum wheels with satin machined details and satin carbon pockets are paired with Pirelli all-season tires for a blend of range and performance. 20" Black Sand All-Terrain: Forged aluminum machined face wheels with dark satin tint and black pockets. Paired with versatile BF Goodrich all-terrain tires for confident handling, on-road and off. 21" Liquid Tungsten All-Season: Forged aluminum machined face wheels finished with liquid tungsten tint and dark pockets. With Pirelli all-season tires, this combo is best for maximizing range and on-road performance. Interior Design R2 Performance and Premium trims feature two signature interiors defined by a tactile blend of Birch wood accents and organic textures. Black Crater Signature — Inspired by the dynamic dark tones of volcanic rock, this interior is crafted with upcycled Birch wood and textile accents. This creates an inviting, dark tonal environment that seamlessly blends rugged durability with a refined, minimalist aesthetic. Coastal Cloud Signature — Open and airy, the crisp tones of cool and cloudy coastal sky are warmed with upcycled Birch wood and soft textile accents. This palette offers a modern aesthetic that is grounded in Rivian's nature-inspired design language. For Standard trim: Black Crater — Featuring dark volcanic tones, a light and airy headliner and natural fiber accents, for an interior that feels both expansive and welcoming. Cabin Space and Storage The interior maximizes every square inch, delivering premium views and a comfortable experience for up to five adults with zero bad seats in the cabin. Open-Air Freedom: A hallmark of the R2 design is the rear drop glass window that lowers completely into the liftgate. With the touch of a button, drivers can drop all windows to allow for flow-through breezes or easily haul long gear like surfboards (included only on Performance and Premium trims). Smart Storage: With 90.1 cubic feet of total enclosed storage, R2 easily adapts to your gear. The class-leading front trunk with 5.2 cu ft of space fits a carry-on and large backpack, dual glove boxes provide maximum organization, and the fold-flat rear seats create a level loading surface for bikes and camping gear. Off-Road Capability and Dimensions 2,000 lbs lighter than the R1 and sitting on a shorter wheelbase (115.6 in), R2 is incredibly responsive and maneuverable in urban environments. Despite its nimbleness, it retains Rivian's off-road DNA. Adventure-oriented EV buyers may also want to compare the 2027 Scout Traveler & Terra, which targets a similar rugged EV SUV market. Best-in-Class Stance: Features 9.6 inches of ground clearance, a 25° approach angle, and a 26° departure angle. Dynamic Drive Experience: R2 achieves a planted, connected-to-the-road feel through a low center of gravity enabled by its structural battery pack. This foundation is enhanced by a semi-active suspension (unique to Performance trim) that delivers superior handling and precision across both on- and off-road terrain. Technology and Driver Assistance R2 marks the evolution of the software-defined vehicle: an AI-ready architecture that pairs 5G-connected, offline-capable processing with tactile, haptic hardware. Built on a multi-modal perception stack—featuring 11 HDR cameras with a combined 65MP and a sophisticated five-radar system—the R2 delivers a leap in hardware fidelity. This foundation powers an expanding suite of driver assistance and active safety features designed for a drive that feels as advanced as it operates. Designed for the Road Ahead: Rivian Autonomy+&sup7; ($49.99/month or $2,500/one-time) hardware is built into all R2 trims and service is optional across the lineup (lifetime access to Autonomy+ included&sup5; with Launch Package), bringing L2+ hands-free assisted driving to 3.5 million miles of roads across the U.S. and Canada with Universal Hands-Free&sup6;. Every Rivian comes standard with a system that continuously evolves with each software update, getting smarter right from your driveway, and foundational active safety and driver assistance features. All new R2 deliveries include a 60-day trial of Autonomy+. AI Powerhouse: R2 is outfitted with 200 sparse TOPS of edge AI compute dedicated to the in-cabin experience. This includes enabling the forthcoming Rivian Assistant—Rivian's in-vehicle voice assistant that understands you, your vehicle and your context—to smoothly run complex tasks locally on the edge, even if the vehicle is offline. Haptic Halo Wheels: At the center of the R2 driving experience is a redesigned steering wheel featuring haptic 'halo' dials. These dynamic and context-aware controls—capable of scrolling, pushing, pulling and tilting—provide distinct physical responses for multiple functions, bridging the gap between digital software and tactile hardware to keep the driver's focus on the horizon. Both the physical wheels and underlying haptic technology were designed in-house. Dual Digital Displays: R2 offers flexibility and control with two displays—a driver display in front of the steering wheel for more utility on the road, and the center display for a deeper dive into features. Software Updates: Rivian builds vertically-integrated hardware and software, enabling your vehicle to gain meaningful updates via software right from your driveway. R2 evolves this vertically integrated approach with a new, streamlined electrical architecture that delivers more capability with less complexity, providing ample headroom for the future. More Electric SUV Coverage Exploring the electric SUV market? Check out these related articles: 2027 Scout Traveler & Terra: Specs, EV Range, Off-Road Capability 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 EV Priced from $58,955 Delivers 300+ Miles of Range 2026 IONIQ 5 EV Lineup Has Major Price Reduction Why Leasing an EV Is Becoming Smarter Than Buying IONNA Aims for Doubles: EV Charging Network Expansion View full article -
On the heels of Honda's announcement that it is canceling development of its 0 Series SUV, 0 Series Saloon, and Acura RSX EVs, Honda is expected to end production of the electric Prologue SUV at the end of this year. Initial production of the Prologue had strong sales with Honda moving 39,000 units in 2025. However, with the expiration of the $7,500 tax credit at the hands of the Trump administration, sales tumbled 76 percent. The Prologue is a joint-venture built with General Motors at GM's plant in Mexico. Honda has already slashed production of the Prologue and now expects to sell only 17,900 units for 2026. The Acura ZDX, another GM joint venture EV model was canceled late in 2025. Honda's electric vehicle restructuring could cost Honda up to $15.8 billion. View full article -
With Honda's cancellation of its own planned EV product lineup, the 0 Series Saloon, 0 Series SUV, and Acura RSX, Sony Honda Mobility has announced the cancellation of their first and second models under the Afeela brand. The Afeela concepts were unveiled at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show to much fanfare, however, expected high pricing amid a global electric vehicle pullback rendered the Afeela brand unviable. The Afeela 1 sedan entered production late last year based on Honda's 0 Series EV architecture, at Honda's assembly plant in East Liberty, Ohio. It is unclear how many Afeela units have been produced. Honda said "The underlying assumptions of [Sony Honda Mobility's] business operations such as the utilization of certain technologies and assets planned to be provided by Honda were fundamentally altered." Sony and Honda will review the business direction of the partnership. Sony Honda Mobility was established in 2022 as a way to blend the electronics and automotive expertise of the two iconic Japanese brands. Related: CES 2023: Sony and Honda Unveil their Joint EV Car Brand and Prototype - Afeela 2023 Afeela Concept - Gallery View full article
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Honda has announced that they have canceled three electric vehicles planned for production in the U.S., citing lower EV demand, U.S. tariffs, and low interest in Asian markets. Executives further blame poor sales of EVs in China specifically for Honda's financial straits with total Honda sales in China down 24-percent. The 0 Series SUV, 0 Series Saloon, and Acura RSX were due to be produced in the U.S. and Honda had already begun retooling its production to be ready for later this year. Honda's course change are expected to severely impact earnings due out on March 31st. Japan's second-largest automaker is looking at potentially $15.8 billion in losses. The Honda Prologue model, which once enjoyed brisk sales prior to the ending of EV tax credits in September 2025, has tumbled 86-percent in the last three months of last year, moving just 2,641 units. Honda instead will divert development towards expanding its offering of hybrid models. View full article
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Sony Honda Mobility Joint Venture in Question Amid Honda Cancellations
Drew Dowdell posted an article in Honda
With Honda's cancellation of its own planned EV product lineup, the 0 Series Saloon, 0 Series SUV, and Acura RSX, Sony Honda Mobility has announced the cancellation of their first and second models under the Afeela brand. The Afeela concepts were unveiled at the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show to much fanfare, however, expected high pricing amid a global electric vehicle pullback rendered the Afeela brand unviable. The Afeela 1 sedan entered production late last year based on Honda's 0 Series EV architecture, at Honda's assembly plant in East Liberty, Ohio. It is unclear how many Afeela units have been produced. Honda said "The underlying assumptions of [Sony Honda Mobility's] business operations such as the utilization of certain technologies and assets planned to be provided by Honda were fundamentally altered." Sony and Honda will review the business direction of the partnership. Sony Honda Mobility was established in 2022 as a way to blend the electronics and automotive expertise of the two iconic Japanese brands. Related: CES 2023: Sony and Honda Unveil their Joint EV Car Brand and Prototype - Afeela 2023 Afeela Concept - Gallery -
On the heels of Honda's announcement that it is canceling development of its 0 Series SUV, 0 Series Saloon, and Acura RSX EVs, Honda is expected to end production of the electric Prologue SUV at the end of this year. Initial production of the Prologue had strong sales with Honda moving 39,000 units in 2025. However, with the expiration of the $7,500 tax credit at the hands of the Trump administration, sales tumbled 76 percent. The Prologue is a joint-venture built with General Motors at GM's plant in Mexico. Honda has already slashed production of the Prologue and now expects to sell only 17,900 units for 2026. The Acura ZDX, another GM joint venture EV model was canceled late in 2025. Honda's electric vehicle restructuring could cost Honda up to $15.8 billion. -
Honda has announced that they have canceled three electric vehicles planned for production in the U.S., citing lower EV demand, U.S. tariffs, and low interest in Asian markets. Executives further blame poor sales of EVs in China specifically for Honda's financial straits with total Honda sales in China down 24-percent. The 0 Series SUV, 0 Series Saloon, and Acura RSX were due to be produced in the U.S. and Honda had already begun retooling its production to be ready for later this year. Honda's course change are expected to severely impact earnings due out on March 31st. Japan's second-largest automaker is looking at potentially $15.8 billion in losses. The Honda Prologue model, which once enjoyed brisk sales prior to the ending of EV tax credits in September 2025, has tumbled 86-percent in the last three months of last year, moving just 2,641 units. Honda instead will divert development towards expanding its offering of hybrid models. -
Rivian, an American technology and automaker company, announced the all-new R2, a mid-size electric SUV. The company has stated that deliveries of the R2 Performance with Launch Package SUV will start in Spring 2026. Premium configurations or mid-tier will begin deliveries in late 2026 and the standard base configuration will start deliveries in 2027. What is a R2 Performance with Launch Package SUV? According to RJ Scaringe, Founder and CEO of Rivian: “R2 embodies so many of our learnings that we have accumulated—the passion and attention to detail from our team is visible everywhere.” The R2 offers the unmistakably Rivian DNA SUV to a broader audience without a compromise in capabilities. All prices do not include taxes and fees at time of purchase. Estimated ranges will vary depending on selected options / trim, preliminary estimates are based on the EPA test cycle and not official values as of this writing. R2 Performance (Available Spring 2026) Debuting with Launch Package starting at $57,990 (available for limited time), the Performance trim is the most capable R2 on- and off-road. This dual-motor AWD variant delivers a staggering 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque, capable of launching R2 from 0-60 mph in as quick as 3.6 seconds and offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles. At this price point, the R2 Performance competes directly with the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 priced from $58,955. Included on Performance: Semi-active suspension Esker Silver exterior Compass Yellow brake calipers and exterior badging All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Black Crater Signature Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel 12-way power driver & passenger seats with lumbar adjustment Rivian Premium Audio (9 speakers, 2 midwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 2 subwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 975W) Rear drop glass Dynamic Adventure Lighting with Adaptive High Beams, Matrix LED headlights Rivian Torch flashlight in the driver door Integrated tow hooks Drive modes: All-Purpose, Conserve, Snow, All-Terrain, Rally, Soft Sand, Sport and Launch Mode 21" Liquid Tungsten All-Season wheels Launch Package Extras In addition to all Performance features, the limited-edition Launch Package includes: Autonomy+&sup5; for lifetime of the vehicle Special Rivian Green anodized Key Fob Exclusive option of Launch Green exterior color (paid upgrade) Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity Optional on Performance Autonomy+ one-time fee or monthly subscription 20" Black Sand All-Terrain wheels Borealis, Catalina Cove, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight exterior colors All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Coastal Cloud Signature Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity R2 Premium (Available Late 2026) Starting at $53,990, the Premium trim is elevated inside and out. Featuring a dual-motor AWD setup that produces 450 horsepower and 537 lb-ft of torque, a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, and an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles. Included on Premium: Esker Silver exterior All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Black Crater Signature Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel 12-way power driver & passenger seats with lumbar adjustment Rivian Premium Audio (9 speakers, 2 midwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 2 subwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 975W) Rear drop glass Dynamic Adventure Lighting with Adaptive High Beams, Matrix LED headlights Rivian Torch flashlight in the driver door Integrated tow hooks Drive modes: All-Purpose, Conserve, Snow, All-Terrain and Sport 20" Bicolor Carbon All-Season wheels Optional on Premium Autonomy+ one-time fee or monthly subscription 21" Liquid Tungsten All-Season wheels Catalina Cove, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight exterior colors All-new premium interior with Birch wood accents in Coastal Cloud Signature Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity R2 Standard (Available First Half 2027) Starting at $48,490, the Standard trim redefines expectations for the mid-size SUV segment. The RWD Long Range configuration of Standard trim will be available in the first half of 2027. This variant delivers 350 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque, a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds and boasts a Rivian-estimated range of up to 345 miles. Shoppers comparing affordable electric SUVs should also check out the 2026 IONIQ 5 with its recent price reduction. Included on Standard: Esker Silver exterior Single-motor RWD Long Range All-new Black Crater interior Heated front seats and heated steering wheel 12-way power driver seat with lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat Standard audio (5 speakers, 2 midwoofers in force-balanced configuration, 525W) Drive modes: All-Purpose, Conserve, Snow and Sport 19" Machined Graphite All-Season wheels Optional on Standard Autonomy+ one-time fee or monthly subscription Dual-motor AWD with 450hp, 537 lb-ft of torque Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight exterior colors 20" Bicolor Carbon All-Season wheels Tow package with 4,400-lbs of towing capacity An additional R2 Standard variant will arrive in late 2027 starting around $45,000, offering 275+ miles of estimated range. More details on this vehicle will be shared closer to production launch. Colors and Customization Rivian has a selection of new colors that go with the existing Midnight, Glacier White, Forest Green, Borealis and Launch Green (available for a limited time with Launch Package). Catalina Cove: Exclusive to R2, like the waters that surround Catalina Island, this metallic paint shifts from deep Pacific blues to translucent greens in the light. Esker Silver: Inspired by the winding ridges of gravel and sand that glaciers leave behind, fine metallic flakes bring depth to this shimmering silver. Half Moon Grey: This metallic grey is inspired by the coastal cliffs of Half Moon Bay — layers of granite and sandstone shifting in warm light. Wheels and Tires Customization of one's ride is supported with a selection of wheels and tire packages, all are a 32" overall diameter. 19" Machined Graphite All-Season: Aluminum wheels with a bright machined finish and graphite metallic pockets. With Pirelli all-season tires for versatile performance in all kinds of conditions. 20" Bicolor Carbon All-Season: Aluminum wheels with satin machined details and satin carbon pockets are paired with Pirelli all-season tires for a blend of range and performance. 20" Black Sand All-Terrain: Forged aluminum machined face wheels with dark satin tint and black pockets. Paired with versatile BF Goodrich all-terrain tires for confident handling, on-road and off. 21" Liquid Tungsten All-Season: Forged aluminum machined face wheels finished with liquid tungsten tint and dark pockets. With Pirelli all-season tires, this combo is best for maximizing range and on-road performance. Interior Design R2 Performance and Premium trims feature two signature interiors defined by a tactile blend of Birch wood accents and organic textures. Black Crater Signature — Inspired by the dynamic dark tones of volcanic rock, this interior is crafted with upcycled Birch wood and textile accents. This creates an inviting, dark tonal environment that seamlessly blends rugged durability with a refined, minimalist aesthetic. Coastal Cloud Signature — Open and airy, the crisp tones of cool and cloudy coastal sky are warmed with upcycled Birch wood and soft textile accents. This palette offers a modern aesthetic that is grounded in Rivian's nature-inspired design language. For Standard trim: Black Crater — Featuring dark volcanic tones, a light and airy headliner and natural fiber accents, for an interior that feels both expansive and welcoming. Cabin Space and Storage The interior maximizes every square inch, delivering premium views and a comfortable experience for up to five adults with zero bad seats in the cabin. Open-Air Freedom: A hallmark of the R2 design is the rear drop glass window that lowers completely into the liftgate. With the touch of a button, drivers can drop all windows to allow for flow-through breezes or easily haul long gear like surfboards (included only on Performance and Premium trims). Smart Storage: With 90.1 cubic feet of total enclosed storage, R2 easily adapts to your gear. The class-leading front trunk with 5.2 cu ft of space fits a carry-on and large backpack, dual glove boxes provide maximum organization, and the fold-flat rear seats create a level loading surface for bikes and camping gear. Off-Road Capability and Dimensions 2,000 lbs lighter than the R1 and sitting on a shorter wheelbase (115.6 in), R2 is incredibly responsive and maneuverable in urban environments. Despite its nimbleness, it retains Rivian's off-road DNA. Adventure-oriented EV buyers may also want to compare the 2027 Scout Traveler & Terra, which targets a similar rugged EV SUV market. Best-in-Class Stance: Features 9.6 inches of ground clearance, a 25° approach angle, and a 26° departure angle. Dynamic Drive Experience: R2 achieves a planted, connected-to-the-road feel through a low center of gravity enabled by its structural battery pack. This foundation is enhanced by a semi-active suspension (unique to Performance trim) that delivers superior handling and precision across both on- and off-road terrain. Technology and Driver Assistance R2 marks the evolution of the software-defined vehicle: an AI-ready architecture that pairs 5G-connected, offline-capable processing with tactile, haptic hardware. Built on a multi-modal perception stack—featuring 11 HDR cameras with a combined 65MP and a sophisticated five-radar system—the R2 delivers a leap in hardware fidelity. This foundation powers an expanding suite of driver assistance and active safety features designed for a drive that feels as advanced as it operates. Designed for the Road Ahead: Rivian Autonomy+&sup7; ($49.99/month or $2,500/one-time) hardware is built into all R2 trims and service is optional across the lineup (lifetime access to Autonomy+ included&sup5; with Launch Package), bringing L2+ hands-free assisted driving to 3.5 million miles of roads across the U.S. and Canada with Universal Hands-Free&sup6;. Every Rivian comes standard with a system that continuously evolves with each software update, getting smarter right from your driveway, and foundational active safety and driver assistance features. All new R2 deliveries include a 60-day trial of Autonomy+. AI Powerhouse: R2 is outfitted with 200 sparse TOPS of edge AI compute dedicated to the in-cabin experience. This includes enabling the forthcoming Rivian Assistant—Rivian's in-vehicle voice assistant that understands you, your vehicle and your context—to smoothly run complex tasks locally on the edge, even if the vehicle is offline. Haptic Halo Wheels: At the center of the R2 driving experience is a redesigned steering wheel featuring haptic 'halo' dials. These dynamic and context-aware controls—capable of scrolling, pushing, pulling and tilting—provide distinct physical responses for multiple functions, bridging the gap between digital software and tactile hardware to keep the driver's focus on the horizon. Both the physical wheels and underlying haptic technology were designed in-house. Dual Digital Displays: R2 offers flexibility and control with two displays—a driver display in front of the steering wheel for more utility on the road, and the center display for a deeper dive into features. Software Updates: Rivian builds vertically-integrated hardware and software, enabling your vehicle to gain meaningful updates via software right from your driveway. R2 evolves this vertically integrated approach with a new, streamlined electrical architecture that delivers more capability with less complexity, providing ample headroom for the future. More Electric SUV Coverage Exploring the electric SUV market? Check out these related articles: 2027 Scout Traveler & Terra: Specs, EV Range, Off-Road Capability 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 EV Priced from $58,955 Delivers 300+ Miles of Range 2026 IONIQ 5 EV Lineup Has Major Price Reduction Why Leasing an EV Is Becoming Smarter Than Buying IONNA Aims for Doubles: EV Charging Network Expansion- 4 comments
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Back in December 2023, my wife mentioned to me that she was getting a little tired after 15 years of the Voom Voom Voom of her SS. The sound of the Borla factory exhaust was not what she wanted to hear in a daily driver. I had originally bought this in 2008 for her when, after our kids had finished college, she wanted to fulfill her life dream of getting an advanced education. She started her college career driving our Escalade ESV to the University of Washington campus and finding that a full-size SUV was hard to park in the garages of compact parking spaces with minimal regular parking spaces. Let's put this all in perspective: the Escalade ESV has 345hp, 380 lb.-ft of torque with V8, 14 mpg average, a curb weight of 5,911lbs, 10 inches of ground clearance, 79.5 inches wide, 75 inches tall, 221.4 inches long and a wheelbase of 130 inches. A comfy, quiet auto that is just big but makes driving very comfortable. 0 to 60 mph of 6.2 seconds. I replaced it with a Trailblazer SS, Corvette-inspired powertrain that makes 390hp, 400 lb.-ft of torque with V8, 12 mpg average, curb weight of 4,496lbs, 7.8-inch ground clearance, 74.7 inches wide, 67.8 inches tall, 191.8 inches long and a wheelbase of 113 inches. An auto designed for performance with a Borla exhaust that lets folks know you are here. 0 to 60 of 5.9 seconds. Kia EV9 Land AWD Long Range edition with relaxation package has 379hp, 516 lb.-ft of torque electric, 80 MPGe average, curb weight 5,886lbs, 7.8 inches of ground clearance, 77.9 inches wide, 70.1 inches tall, 197.1 inches long and a wheelbase of 122 inches. 0 to 60 of 4.4 seconds. The relaxation package adds heated and cooled seats to the second row along with calf leg support on both the first and second-row seats, allowing for lazy boy reclining comfort. The differences of the EV over the SS are as follows: 11hp less, 116 lb.-ft of torque more, 1,400 lbs. heavier, 3.2 inches wider, 2.3 inches taller, 5.6 inches longer, wheelbase is 9 inches longer along with 1.5 seconds faster. The EV comes with the following driving modes: eco, normal, sport, snow, and custom. You can clearly tell that the suspension tightens up in Sport mode, much tighter than the SS ever was even though both had 20-inch rims with identical size tires. The longer wheelbase here allows the EV to have a very comfortable ride still while spirited in driving; back in Normal mode, it rides on par with my Escalade with a Magna ride. What does that give me? A more comfortable ride with a roomy interior with space for 6 adults compared to a tight fit of 5 adults. The relaxation package, which I did not realize it had till I was being taken over the auto after the deal closed, is nice as it goes from just having the heat and cooling of the front seats to the middle row of seats having heat and cooling plus all 4 captain chairs have the lazy-boy approach of cafe support that comes up, chair will straighten out and give you a very comfy sleep capable setup. The wireless Android Auto is great. While the system has a high-encryption security system, when you get in based on your fob, you would have to punch in a pin to actually get the EV started. If you have Kia Connect on your smartphone and place it on the wireless charging pad, it will allow you to start the auto without having to enter your pin. I am pleasantly surprised by just how much bigger the interior is of the EV9 over Kia's Telluride, which is very nice for an ICE auto, as my son traded in his Jeep Grand Cherokee on one. They are pretty much the same width, length, height, and ground clearance, and yet the interior space is so much more on the EV9, especially behind the 3rd seat for storage.Yes, the EV9 has a Frunk, and while some might consider it not useful, it is bigger than many out there but not as big as a Mach e. It can hold 44lbs @ 1.8 cubic feet of space. I am looking at what Kia recommends the ChargePoint+ 80amp hardwired Level 2 charger for my garage. This gives a 10% to 80% charge in 3hrs and 45 min. I will be trying at the end of the week the 110 Volt charger that came with the EV9. While I still have plenty to learn about this EV, I will say that I love the lighting of the auto inside; the layout of the dash is great. Turn signals have a circle that pops up on the dash, showing you the side of your auto so you can make sure not to hit anything on the side. The 360-surround camera system is outstanding and clear, even in heavy rain, I have ended up leaving it set to have the rear-view mirror run in camera mode all the time as it is better than a traditional mirror. Ask any and all questions. I'll be happy to answer them. For all pictures, check out my garage entry - Members Garage: 2024 Kia EV9 View full article
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From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - NACS Charting port with charging cable connected -
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Carbon Fiber rear air splitter
Drew Dowdell posted a gallery image in Gallery
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Carbon Fiber rear air splitter -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - V-series trunk badging -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - D-Pillar decoration -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Front, driving on a mountain road -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Navigation screen -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Rear, driving on a mountain road -
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - V-series embelishment on seat
Drew Dowdell posted a gallery image in Gallery
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - V-series embelishment on seat -
2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Wheel featuring V-Series badging
Drew Dowdell posted a gallery image in Gallery
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Wheel featuring V-Series badging -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Driver's seat and dashboard, facing front. -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
Cadillac OPTIQ-V interior, rear right seat, facing forward -
From the album: 2026 Cadillac OPTIQ-V
Cadillac OPTIQ-V - Front-Side in blue. -
2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss - midgate and tailgate open
Drew Dowdell posted a gallery image in Gallery
From the album: 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss
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2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss - with motorcycles in bed
Drew Dowdell posted a gallery image in Gallery
From the album: 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss
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2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss - Badge and C-Pillar
Drew Dowdell posted a gallery image in Gallery
From the album: 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss
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From the album: 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss
