Rivian, you had my curiosity, now you’ve got my consideration. The electrical automaker adopted up the debut of its upcoming R2 electrical SUV with the shock unveiling of an excellent smaller R3 electrical crossover and its efficiency variant, the R3X. These little guys completely stole the present and the highlight with their class-bending proportions, rally-inspired model.
The R3 takes the already shortened R2 platform and makes it even shorter but. With 110.2 inches between its axles, the R3’s wheelbase is round 5 inches shorter than the R2 and 10.5 inches shorter than the R1S. Rivian wraps a hatchback’s silhouette round that brief wheelbase, maintaining a little bit of SUV-like floor clearance intact for the “journey car” functionality that is the model’s hallmark.
Watch this: Rivian R2, R3 and R3X Reveal Event: Everything Announced in 8 Minutes
The rear hatch contains a glass backlight that may be lifted independently, for fast entry or to permit lengthy cargo to hang around. Like the R2, the R3’s entrance and rear seats are capable of fold flat, maximizing cargo capability or enabling enclosed tenting with the support of an air mattress. Like the remainder of the Rivian lineup, there’s additionally a bit frunk storage space beneath the hood.
Using the R2’s platform means the R3 may also characteristic the similar single-, dual- and triple-motor configurations and profit from the new battery design with larger-diameter cylindrical cells. Rivian did not state sizes for R2 or R3, however I anticipate the latter to hold a smaller total capability. How it should stack as much as the R2’s “over 300 miles of vary,” in accordance with the automaker, additionally stays to be seen.
The R3 and R3X will probably be Rivian’s smallest fashions but.
The R3 will probably be joined by the R3X, a efficiency variant with a wider stance, extra aggressive wheels and tires and a scooch extra floor clearance. The R3X stands aside with orange highlights and trim — versus the yellow Rivian usually makes use of to point top-spec gear — for the wing mirrors and distinguished tow hooks. The R3X will doubtless be provided solely with the tri-motor configuration for the most rally-inspired efficiency and will probably be provided with a extra premium inside design with classic rally sport particulars.
Pricing, vary and availability have but to be introduced, nevertheless it’s a secure assumption that the R3 will begin at an MSRP beneath the R2’s $45,000 estimated flooring and arrive someday after 2026. It’s a methods off, however the Rivian R3X simply turned my most anticipated new EV. Let’s hope these smol bois can reside as much as their large guarantees once they get right here.