Rivian Automotive’s latest shareholder letter offers fresh insights into the next-generation battery technology powering its upcoming R2 compact SUV, underscoring the company’s continued focus on innovation and efficiency.
The R2 will feature an all-new battery pack built around Rivian’s proprietary 4695 cell, which delivers six times more energy than the 2170 cells used in current R1 models. The battery pack also uses the R2’s floor as its structural lid, a design choice that reduces overall weight and improves energy efficiency.
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Rivian confirmed that all R2 battery cells will be produced in the United States starting in 2027, marking a significant step toward supply chain localization, cost reduction, and greater production stability. The move aligns with the automaker’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic manufacturing and meet future demand while taking advantage of U.S. clean energy incentives.
In addition to the new battery system, Rivian introduced its Energy Management Control Module (EMCM) — a next-generation power unit that integrates multiple systems into a single compact module.
See also: Rivian R2 Battery Pack Uses Fewer, Larger Cells Than R1 Models
Among its most notable features is a bidirectional charging capability, allowing power to flow both ways: charging the vehicle from the grid or supplying electricity from the vehicle back to a home or other devices. This capability supports Rivian’s vision of creating smarter, more sustainable energy ecosystems built around its electric vehicles.
