More Affordable Rivian Models Are Coming

It’s been a busy few weeks for Rivian. In addition to introducing the second-generation R1 models and a new partnership with Volkswagen, the automaker has teased five new models that will launch soon.

As showcased in an investor presentation, three of these vehicles are described as “affordable mass market” cars, suggesting that Rivian has plans to introduce more wallet-friendly EVs in the near future. Aside from the mass market trio, the Gen 2 and MSP vehicles will receive an additional vehicle. Let’s dive into this. Rivian refers to the updated R1S and R1T as its Gen 2 cars, so what else could be introduced to finish the lineup?

Endless Possibilities For New Rivian Models

There’s a chance Rivian will introduce an updated version of the EDV and ECV delivery fans, borrowing technology from the new R1S and R1T. While the exterior styling remains unchanged, the electric truck and SUV have received significant under-the-skin updates, including a new in-house developed electrical architecture that relies on fewer ECUs and a new zonal architecture that removes 1.6 miles worth of wiring, among other things. The vans could undoubtedly benefit from these upgrades.

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As for the MSP (midsize platform), a third model will join the new R2 and R3 models. There’s no word on what this could be, but based on Rivian’s current product lineup, we may see a smaller pickup truck based on the R3. This could be an all-electric rival for the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick. If it is priced similarly to the R2, we can expect a price tag of between $40,000 and $60,000.

More Affordable Rivians On The Horizon?

The “affordable mass market” lineup is arguably the most intriguing. These three cars will be positioned beneath the Gen 2 and MSP cars, which suggests a price of less than $40,000. The possibilities are endless; Rivian could introduce a slew of compact electric crossovers that would appeal to mainstream consumers. The new partnership with Volkswagen opens up the potential for co-developed compact vehicles.

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In the presentation, Rivian notes that Volkswagen has “industry-leading vehicle architecture” and an “unrivaled portfolio with leading technology.” It’s reasonable to assume that Volkswagen and Rivian could work on new cars together, allowing both brands to cut costs and, possibly, offer EVs at a lower price than rivals. Volkswagen has plans to engineer a new compact electric car. Previously, the automaker intended to work with Renault but has since abandoned this idea. Rivian’s technological and software prowess would be a godsend for Volkswagen. Of course, this is speculation, and until Rivian gives us a greater idea of what’s to come, we’ll remain in the dark.