Rivian is heavily investing in the future success of its upcoming R2 model, with development and launch remaining on schedule. The company has finished building a massive 1.1 million-square-foot expansion at its Normal, Illinois plant, where it is currently installing the equipment needed for production. Rivian plans to commission this new R2 production line in the third quarter of 2025 and is already building validation prototypes of the R2 at a pilot facility in California.

To prepare for R2 manufacturing, Rivian will temporarily shut down its current production lines in Illinois for three weeks in September. Once the new lines are operational, the company's total annual manufacturing capacity will increase to approximately 215,000 units. Rivian is confident that the R2 will have a lower cost structure than the R1 model, allowing it to reach a positive gross profit more quickly.