Summary
- LG Energy Solution will supply batteries for the upcoming Rivian R2 with new cylindrical cells that have six times the capacity of current cells
- The R2 model is set to launch in the second half of the decade and Rivian has inked a battery supply deal with LGES
- Rivian plans to use advanced 4695 cylindrical cells totaling 67 gigawatt-hours for the R2 model
- The R2 will feature over 300 miles of range and will come equipped with cool tech like zonal architecture and haptic control dials
- Rivian is targeting a starting price of $45,000 for the R2, competing with Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Chevy Blazer EV
Article
LG Energy Solution to Supply Batteries for Rivian R2
Korean battery giant LG Energy Solution recently announced that it will be supplying batteries for the upcoming Rivian R2. According to LGES, the R2 will feature a new type of cylindrical cell with six times the capacity of current cells. This partnership is part of the battery blitz in America, with Rivian being the latest beneficiary of this collaboration with LGES.
Details of the Battery Supply Deal
Rivian has signed a battery supply deal with LG Energy Solution for its next-generation R2 model, set to launch in the second half of the decade. LGES will provide Rivian with its advanced 4695 cylindrical cells for over five years, amounting to a total capacity of 67 gigawatt-hours. These new cells are larger in size, with a diameter of 46 millimeters and a height of 95 mm, offering improved energy density, space efficiency, and safety.
Manufacturing and Production Plans for Rivian R2
The batteries will be manufactured at the LGES factory in Arizona and shipped to Rivian’s Illinois plant, where the R2 is expected to enter production in 2026. The R2 is anticipated to offer over 300 miles of range, building on the success of Rivian’s previous models, the R1S and R1T. While the R1S and R1T use batteries from Samsung SDI, the R2 will feature LGES batteries, showcasing the industry shift towards diverse battery form factors.
Advanced Features of the Rivian R2
Rivian has showcased the R2 with a focus on adventure and innovation, incorporating features like zonal architecture and haptic control dials on the steering. The R2 will come equipped with the Tesla NACS connector, ensuring easy access to fast chargers. With a target starting price of $45,000, the R2 will compete with popular electric vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and the Chevy Blazer EV.
Market Response and Pre-Order Numbers
The R2 has generated significant interest, with pre-orders exceeding 100,000 by July. However, the big question remains whether buyers will opt for the R2 or wait for the smaller R3 model. The promising response to the R2 signals a growing demand for electric vehicles with advanced features and competitive pricing. Rivian’s partnership with LGES for battery supply underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the EV market.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Rivian and LG Energy Solution represents a significant step towards the development of high-capacity batteries for electric vehicles. The R2’s innovative features and competitive pricing are expected to appeal to a wide range of consumers looking for sustainable transportation options. As the EV market continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between Rivian and LGES will play a crucial role in driving innovation and meeting the growing demand for electric vehicles.
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