Rivian R2 ordering invites just started landing in regular customers' inboxes, with early recipients already placing orders and sharing screenshots of their emails.
These invites prioritize folks who previously owned a Rivian, which explains why many first-time buyers like us are still waiting. The wave is clearly building though, and more Rivian R2 buyer invites should hit soon.
Rivian R2 deliveries nearing 1,000 units
Deliveries are already climbing fast. One recent batch showed 985 units out the door, putting the brand within striking distance of its first thousand R2s on the road. Those initial vehicles are sporting some surprisingly aggressive wheel designs that give the R2 a lower, more planted stance than expected.
For full details on the timeline, check out our post on when Rivian R2 deliveries begin June 2026.
Rivian R2 lease price draws mixed reactions
A Wall Street Journal piece noted that fans are already pushing back on the Rivian R2 lease price of $829 a month. The figure sits just $70 below the R1S lease, leaving little spread for what is supposed to be the more affordable model. Still, Rivian reports roughly 50 percent of R2 buyers are choosing to lease so far.
We broke down the numbers in our dedicated post on the Rivian R2 lease deal $829/month.
What this means for Tesla owners
If you're a Tesla owner eyeing an R2, now is the time to watch your inbox closely. The Rivian R2 R1S comparison becomes even more relevant once invites go wider. Selling your current Tesla privately or to a third party can often net thousands more than trading it in.
Plug Motors — get an instant offer to sell your Tesla or EV is worth a quick look before you finalize any Rivian order.
Bottom line
Rivian R2 ordering invites mark the real start of volume production. With deliveries climbing and leases already popular, the R2 is moving from concept to reality faster than many expected.
