The Rivian R2 is equipped with a 4695 battery from LG Energy Solution: A direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y.
The Rivian R2 electric SUV will utilize the latest 4695 battery generation from LG Energy Solution, offering a range of 483 km with a starting price of approximately 1.13 billion VND.
Rivian has just announced a strategic partnership agreement with LG Energy Solution (LGES) to supply batteries for its upcoming R2 electric vehicle. Accordingly, this mid-size SUV will utilize advanced 4695 cylindrical battery cells, a significant step towards optimizing performance and increasing competitiveness against the Tesla Model Y in the North American market.
4695 battery technology and strategic supply agreements
According to the agreement, LGES will supply Rivian with 4695 cylindrical batteries for over five years, with a total capacity of 67 gigawatt-hours (GWh). These are large battery cells, measuring 46 mm in diameter and 95 mm in height. Notably, the capacity of each 4695 cell is said to be six times that of the currently popular 2170 batteries.
Using larger cell sizes allows Rivian to increase the battery pack's energy density, while also improving space efficiency within the chassis and enhancing overall safety. All of these batteries will be manufactured at LGES's plant in Arizona (USA) and shipped to Rivian's assembly plant in Illinois, where R2 production is expected to begin in 2026.
Key performance specifications and equipment
The Rivian R2 was first introduced in March as a 5-seater SUV, retaining the adventurous design DNA of its R1S sibling but in a more compact body. The vehicle is expected to have a range of over 300 miles (approximately 483 km). Currently, the company's R1S and R1T models use batteries from Samsung SDI, so diversifying the supply source with LGES is seen as a strategic move to ensure production for the new flagship model.
| Specifications | Details expected on Rivian R2 |
|---|---|
| Battery type | 4695 cylindrical battery (Made in the USA) |
| Operating range | Approximately 483 km (300 miles) |
| Charging port | NACS standard (compatible with Tesla network) |
| Electrical architecture | Zonal architecture |
| Starting price | $45,000 (approximately 1.13 billion VND) |
In addition to new battery technology, the R2 will incorporate a zonal power architecture to optimize wiring and software. The steering wheel features haptic feedback controls, and it also includes a built-in Tesla NACS charging port, allowing users convenient access to the Supercharger network.
Competitive position and orders
With an expected starting price of $45,000 (approximately 1.13 billion VND), the Rivian R2 will directly compete with established names in the electric SUV segment such as the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Chevrolet Blazer EV. This is currently the fastest-growing and most fiercely competitive segment in the US.
As of July, Rivian had recorded over 100,000 pre-orders for the R2, demonstrating the brand's strong consumer appeal. However, experts believe Rivian's biggest challenge will be ensuring production runs into 2026 and maintaining competitive pricing, as competitors are also continuously updating their battery technology and lowering product costs.
