During a highly anticipated livestream event held on Thursday, Rivian, an electric vehicle (EV) upstart, introduced its latest lineup addition – the R2 electric SUV. This more affordable and compact offering is priced at $45,000. However, the company didn’t stop there, as it surprised viewers by unveiling two additional models, the R3 and the rugged R3X. This move showcased Rivian’s commitment to catering to a diverse range of consumers and their lifestyle preferences.

The R2: compact yet capable

The R2 is a compact five-seat SUV designed to deliver an impressive range of at least 300 miles per charge, thanks to Rivian’s newly designed 4695 cell and a larger battery pack integrated into the vehicle’s floor. This compact SUV promises a potent performance, with three motor layouts to choose from: a standard single-motor rear-wheel drive, a dual-motor all-wheel drive, and a tri-motor variant that can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering three seconds.

Rivian has also prioritized charging convenience for the R2, equipping it with a NACS chargeport compatible with Tesla‘s Supercharger network. Additionally, the company plans to establish its own Rivian Adventure Network, with 600 charging locations slated for development in the coming years.

The R2’s interior boasts a robust infotainment system, two gloveboxes (a feature absent in the R1 line), and innovative steering wheel controls with haptic feedback. Advanced self-driving capabilities are bolstered by 11 cameras and five radars, including a long-range front-facing radar.

Despite its compact footprint, the R2 offers ample space and versatility, with an open-air design featuring removable quarter windows and a rear glass window that drops for easy access. Both rows of seats fold flat, accommodating gear like surfboards, and a spacious front trunk (frunk) provides additional storage.

The R3 and R3X: unexpected surprises

In a true “one more thing” moment, Rivian unveiled the R3 and the adventure-ready R3X, catching the audience by surprise. The R3 is an even more compact offering than the R2, with a shorter wheelbase and a tighter overall design. Like its larger sibling, it will be available in single-motor, dual-motor, and tri-motor variants, although range details were not provided.

The R3 shares the R2’s open-air design elements, including an automatic rear lift and a multi-position rear glass window, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Sustainable materials and a pair of gloveboxes round out the R3’s interior.

The real showstopper, however, was the R3X, a high-performance, dune buggy-inspired EV with a tri-motor configuration as the only option. Boasting a wider stance, increased ground clearance, and a “rugged and playful” interior crafted from materials like cork and anodized metal, the R3X promises to be a formidable off-road companion.

Rivian remained tight-lipped about pricing and availability details for the R3 and R3X but teased upcoming accessories for its entire vehicle lineup, including a rooftop tent, bike racks, and additional rear storage options, solidifying its commitment to an adventurous lifestyle.

While Rivian’s unveiling of the R2, R3, and R3X generated excitement, the company faces ongoing challenges. In February, Rivian announced a 10% reduction in its salaried workforce, and job cuts have already begun, including the layoff of around 100 employees at its Normal, Illinois factory this week.