:

RIVIAN PLOTS R2 PICKUP AND R2X VARIANTS

INDUSTRY DESK1 MIN READ
WED, MAY 6, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe has hinted at expanding the R2 lineup beyond its planned SUV with a pickup truck and an R2X model variant.

The electric vehicle maker is exploring multiple configurations of its upcoming R2, according to comments from Scaringe. Details remain limited, but the CEO confirmed work is underway on an R2 pickup version and an R2X variant, suggesting the company aims to maximize the platform's potential across different vehicle categories. Rivian previously announced the R2 as a more affordable electric SUV designed to reach a broader market than its R1S and R1T offerings. Introducing a pickup variant would position the company to compete directly in the electric truck segment, while an R2X designation typically indicates an off-road focused model. The timeline and specifications for these variants have not been disclosed. Rivian is currently ramping production of the R1S and R1T while preparing for R2 launch in 2026.

■ SOURCES

Ars Technica

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

■ MORE FROM THE HARDWARE DESK

Samsung has reversed course on its flip phone strategy, allowing the Galaxy Z Flip 8 to run a full Android experience on its cover display rather than limiting it to basic widgets and notifications.

JUST NOWIndustry Desk

Xiaomi's upcoming flagship foldable will debut CXMT's LPDDR6 DRAM chips and Xiaomi's 3nm Xring O3 processor. The device launches in September.

3H AGOIndustry Desk

SK Hynix held a groundbreaking ceremony for a $4 billion advanced memory packaging facility in Indiana. Mass production of next-generation HBM chips is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2029.

3H AGOIndustry Desk

Chinese automakers are investing heavily in humanoid robots, following Tesla's lead in betting that the technology represents the next major profit opportunity. Technical advances have triggered a wave of new entrants into the sector.

3H AGOIndustry Desk

■ SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY BRIEF

ONE EMAIL, 5 STORIES, 06:00 UTC. UNSUBSCRIBE ANYTIME.