Rivian Unveils Ambitious Plans with Volkswagen’s $1 Billion Investment

Rivian plans five new vehicles, including an affordable mid-size pickup and mass-market models, backed by Volkswagen’s $1 billion investment for next-gen EV architecture.

Rivian continues to fight for survival, but this hasn’t curbed their ambitious plans. The company envisions at least five new vehicles, revealed alongside Volkswagen’s significant investment. They plan to build an additional vehicle on the Gen 2 platform, possibly a redesigned delivery van.

In addition to the R2 and R3 crossovers, Rivian hinted at a third model on their upcoming mid-size platform, possibly a more affordable mid-size pickup. The R2 SUV is set to be built in Illinois, priced around $45,000, with deliveries starting in early 2026. Details on the R3 remain vague, but it’s expected to be cheaper than the R2.

Three additional vehicles will feature an «affordable mass market» architecture, likely part of the joint venture with Volkswagen. Volkswagen is investing $1 billion, potentially increasing to $5 billion, to establish a 50/50 joint venture for next-generation E/E architecture for Evs.

Rivian stated that the investment will support their operations through the R2 production in Normal and the mid-size platform in Georgia, aiming for positive cash flow and scale. Volkswagen’s global reach and market knowledge are expected to extend the core technology to a wider customer base.