Rivian Hits Pause on Georgia Plant, Consolidates R2 Production in Illinois

(Archive)

Rivian just pulled a major strategy shift. The EV startup recently wowed fans with the reveal of its more affordable R2, R3, and R3X SUVs, each promising quick acceleration, over 300 miles of range, and advanced driver-assist features. But when it comes to actually building them? The much-hyped Georgia factory won’t be the launchpad.

Instead, Rivian is consolidating R2 production into its existing Normal, Illinois, facility. Why? To save money and time—big money and time.

Illinois Takes the Lead

The company says producing the R2 in Illinois will shave over $2.25 billion off its original plans. That’s not pocket change—it’s a massive cost cut coming from capital expenditures, product development, and supplier deals.

Building the R2 alongside the R1T pickup, R1S SUV, and Rivian’s commercial delivery vans will also let the Illinois site scale up faster. Capacity there is expected to expand to 215,000 vehicles per year, with R2 production kicking off in the first half of 2026.

Georgia Isn’t Dead—Just Delayed

Rivian’s Georgia site was supposed to start opening this year, but construction is now officially paused. The plant is still central to the company’s long-term plans—it will eventually take on R2 production, plus serve as the main hub for the upcoming R3 and R3X. But with construction on hold, those models won’t realistically hit production lines until 2027 or later.

What It Means for Rivian

Rivian is making a bet: consolidate resources now, launch the R2 sooner, and prove it can deliver at scale. The R2 is Rivian’s chance to hit the mainstream EV market and go head-to-head with the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Hyundai/Kia’s fast-rising electric crossovers.

For customers, the move means a quicker path to getting the R2 on the road. For Rivian, it’s survival by efficiency.

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