StoryManufacturing
R2 production starts in Normal, Illinois, days after a tornado hits the plant
Rivian started R2 production at its Normal, Illinois plant days after a tornado struck on April 18, with first deliveries set for spring 2026. The first version, the Performance model, launched at $57,990 with 656 hp and 330 miles of EPA range.
- R2 Production launch: Normal, Illinois facility, spring 2026 first deliveries
- Facility disruption: Tornado hit April 18, production began shortly after
- Performance trim specs: $57,990, 656 hp dual-motor AWD, 330-mile range, 3.6s 0-60
- Pricing: Premium $53,990 (late 2026); single-motor versions $48,490 (early 2027) and $45,000 (late 2027)