Rivian has filed plans for a "global product launch" on March 7th at its new flagship shop in Laguna Beach, and records show that the event will be for its much-anticipated smaller, more cheap R2 platform.
Rivian just constructed a new main shop in downtown Laguna Beach, replacing a dilapidated historic theater that had been in operation since 1936. Led by Rivian design VP Denise Cherry, the business transformed the facility into a retail and event venue equipped with a stage and theater screen.
The theater is only a few minutes away from Rivian's Irvine offices, making it a handy location for the firm to host events. During the theater's grand opening, it appeared ideal for product reveals.
And, sure enough, last night Rivian went to the Laguna Beach City Council to request permission to utilize the theater and the public beach area across the street for a "global product launch." This would take place on the afternoon of March 7, and Rivian requested that six automobiles be placed on the grassy area next to Main Beach, across from the theater, for public exhibition.
Rivian's submission contained a schematic demonstrating its proposed use of the grassy area, as well as a paper labeled "RIVIAN R2 LAUNCH":
However, Rivian appears to have withdrawn his request to utilize the public beach area following some minor but vocal resistance from neighbors. However, this does not indicate that the event is completely canceled; in fact, the file shows that Rivian appears to be set to launch the R2 in roughly a month and a half from now.
Given that Rivian owns the event space within the theater, it would not require a special exception to access public land, therefore it could still intend to use the venue's enormous room for a launch.
It's widely known that Rivian has been developing a more compact and budget-friendly iteration of its R1T and R1S vehicles. While the R1T and R1S have garnered widespread acclaim, their starting price of approximately $80,000 places them beyond the financial reach of many consumers. Rivian aims to leverage its successful branding and momentum from the R1 series by introducing a vehicle that caters to a broader market, akin to Rivian's "Model Y" counterpart (the best-selling car globally last year) compared to the R1's "Model X."
Although details about the R2 have been scarce, a glimpse under a cover revealed a smaller size than the R1, with Rivian's CEO, RJ Scaringe, standing next to it, highlighting its more compact dimensions while retaining a similar boxy shape. Marketing material in the background suggested that the R2 will retain the iconic headlight design of the R1. Previous glimpses, including a clay model of the fender, have provided hints about the vehicle's design.
Enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating more information about the R2, with hopes that additional details will be unveiled on March 7th. The anticipation is fueled by a desire to learn more about the vehicle and, perhaps, the continuation of the unique "ice cream cart" element as part of the event.
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