Forest Edge is back for R1, but only as a $9,000 Dual R1 package that bundles the interior with 22" Sport Dark wheels, the Darkout Package, and Sound + Vision. It hasn't been orderable since around 2022, and it's limited time, so the green and wood crowd shouldn't sit on it.
Rivian software chief Wassym Bensaid went on Decoder, and it's the clearest look yet at the VW deal, why Rivian's software culture is the real asset, and what RV Tech means for every future EV from Audi to Scout.
R2 ordering is officially open as of June 9th, starting with the Performance Launch Edition only at $57,990. You're getting 656 hp, semi-active suspension, around 330 miles of range, and the full Launch Package, with current R1 owners getting priority and first deliveries targeted for 2-6 weeks from the date.
Leasing is confirmed for the R2 Launch Edition from day one, which is new territory for Rivian, and if you're trying to figure out how to pay for yours, I'd lean lease. Not for the money, but because R2 is a brand-new platform arriving right before LiDAR lands in late 2026, and that's hardware you can't add to an early build later. Here's the case for leasing, the case for buying, and why I'm personally doing the opposite of what I'd tell you to.
The 2027 model year R1 is probably going to be a light refresh while Rivian keeps its head down on R2, so I'm looking past it to the next-generation R1 expected around summer 2027. Here's my full wishlist, from captain's chairs and the R2 LiDAR system to 800V, vehicle to home charging, and a battery that stops thermal limiting the second things heat up.
