Rivian’s R2 to Feature US-Made Batteries from LG Energy

$Rivian Automotive (RIVN.US)$ ’s upcoming R2 electric SUVs will be powered by next-gen batteries made in the U.S. by LG Energy Solution, as confirmed in Rivian’s Q3 report. These 4695 cells, named for their 46mm diameter and 95mm height, will be larger than Tesla’s 4680 cells and assembled in Queen Creek, Arizona, starting in 2026.

The R2, priced from $45,000, is aimed at buyers seeking a more accessible EV.

By producing batteries domestically, Rivian aims to align with federal EV tax credit requirements.

While Rivian’s current R1 models rely on Samsung SDI cells made in South Korea, shifting to U.S.-based LG production aligns with its tax credit strategy. However, if the upcoming election results in the rollback of EV subsidies, Rivian and other EV-only brands may face a more challenging market landscape.