Rivian (RIVN) is preparing to launch R2: Here’s the latest update on its progress

Rivian is still on track to launch the midsize R2 next year. The expansion at its Normal, Illinois, plant is quickly advancing as it preps for R2 deliveries in 2026. Rivian says it’s “slightly ahead” on construction. Here’s the latest update on Rivian’s R2 expansion in Normal.

Rivian R2 launch is still on track for 2026

Even during the Illinois winter, Rivian said construction has progressed well. Rivian is building a new 1.1-million-square-foot building on the east side of the plant, which will be the body shop and general assembly for R2.

The Normal plant, where Rivian builds the current R1S, R1T, and Electric Commercial Van, is already 4.3 million square feet. Once the upgrades are complete, the plant will be able to produce up to 215,000 vehicles a year, up from the current 150,000.

Soon, Rivian expects to finish the roof while interior work has already begun. Tony Sanger, VP of production facilities at Rivian, gave us a few updates on its progress.

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According to Sanger, all new buildings are “going vertical.” In other words, the walls, structural components, and roofing are well underway.

Rivian finished the walls for the new Body, General Assembly, and End of Line building. The structural steel is 70% complete, while the roof decking is about 60% finished.

Sanger said, “We are running slightly ahead on this building.” The Parts Pre-Treat and E-Coat Dip building is nearly completely weather-tight, and Rivian expects its integrator to start landing equipment next month.

Rivian’s R2 expansion is still “on track” with the midsize platform set to launch in 2026 as planned. Sanger explained that prefabrication has been key to staying ahead.

Although the new 1.1 million square foot building required Rivian to take down its test track, it’s building a new high-speed track, expected to open this spring.

Earlier this month, CEO RJ Scaringe gave us a sneak peek of the R2 body as it preps for production. Although Rivian will begin building R2 in Normal, it expects output to ramp up significantly at its new EV plant in Georgia.

The Georgia facility is expected to come online in 2028 with up to 400,000 annual vehicle production capacity. Rivian says R2 is just the start, with other variants, like the smaller R3 and sporty R3X, launching shortly after.

Starting at about $45,000, the R2 will be nearly half the cost of Rivian’s current R1S ($77,700) and R1T ($71,700).