Deliveries of the Rivian R2 SUV have commenced, although not for the variant that most customers are likely seeking.

      The budget-friendly R2 has yet to arrive

      As promised, Rivian has begun delivering its R2 electric SUV. The first model delivered is the R2 Performance with Launch Package, starting at $57,990 before additional fees.

      This version offers early R2 customers the most powerful option in the confirmed lineup. It features dual-motor all-wheel drive, 656 horsepower, 609 lb-ft of torque, and an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles. Rivian claims it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds.

      Features of the initial R2

      In addition to its performance enhancements, this trim includes semi-active suspension, heated and ventilated seats, Birch wood interior accents, a premium audio system with 975 watts, Matrix LED headlights, and drive modes focused on different terrains like Rally and Soft Sand. The limited-time Launch Package also offers Autonomy+, Launch Green paint, and a tow package rated for 4,400 pounds.

      Every R2 comes equipped with a native NACS charging port, enabling owners to utilize Tesla’s Supercharger network. This feature should simplify charging during longer trips, especially compared to older EVs that had fewer dependable charging options.

      Upcoming lower-priced trims by Rivian

      Following the launch model, Rivian will introduce lower-priced R2 trims. The Premium trim is anticipated in late 2026 with a starting price of $53,990, offering 450 horsepower, 537 lb-ft of torque, a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, and a range of up to 330 miles.

      The Standard RWD Long Range trim is set for release in the first half of 2027 at $48,490. This trim features a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup with 350 horsepower, a 5.9-second 0 to 60 mph time, and an estimated range of up to 345 miles. Rivian is also expected to offer a more affordable Standard variant later in 2027, priced around $45,000 with a range exceeding 275 miles.

      While the initial deliveries focus on the fastest and best-equipped variant of the SUV, the broader appeal of the R2 will likely hinge on how much of its comfort and utility Rivian can replicate in the more affordable trims.

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      This compact sensor could enhance night vision for self-driving cars and robots

      Researchers at Penn State have created a light-adaptive photomemristor inspired by the human eye, achieving over 95% visual accuracy in varying light conditions.

      This light-adaptive sensor component developed by Penn State researchers could significantly improve the reliability of cameras in autonomous vehicles and robots under changing lighting scenarios. The findings were published on Monday in Nature Communications and draw direct inspiration from how the human eye adjusts to bright and dark settings.

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      Rivian R2 first drive: A mid-sized electric vehicle that exceeds expectations for its price

      Ingenious engineering meets real-world performance in a surprisingly upscale $50,000 electric SUV.

      Rivian has officially launched the R2, a more compact and affordable two-row electric SUV. Despite the reduced price, it appears the company has not compromised on quality. Instead, savings have been largely achieved through improved engineering efficiency.

      Examples of this enhanced efficiency include the vehicle’s wiring, which has eliminated about two miles of cable compared to the R1 model. Many of the vehicle's systems and chipsets have also been made more compact.

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      Audi addresses the Ferrari Luce excitement with the hybrid Nuvolari, its most powerful car to date

      Introducing the Audi that makes Formula 1 technology road-legal.

      Audi has unveiled the Nuvolari, its first hybrid supercar, and the specifications are truly astonishing. Named after Tazio Nuvolari, a legendary figure in motorsport, the car boasts 1,001 PS and can achieve a top speed exceeding 350 km/h. Only 499 units will ever be produced, with deliveries expected to begin in the first half of 2027.

      The Nuvolari can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and reach 200 km/h in just 6.8 seconds. Under the hood, it features a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine generating 800 hp, combined with three electric motors, yielding a total system output of 1,001 PS. The electric motors on the front axle alone provide 2,150 Nm of torque, a figure that seems almost unbelievable.