The electric vehicle industry in America is witnessing a battery revolution, with the latest development being the partnership between Rivian and LG Energy Solution (LGES) for the upcoming Rivian R2 model. This collaboration will see LGES supplying advanced 4695 cylindrical cells to Rivian for a period of over five years, with a total capacity of 67 gigawatt-hours. These new cells, with a diameter of 46mm and a height of 95mm, offer six times the capacity of the current 2170 cylindrical cells.
According to LGES, the larger size of these new cells enables higher energy density, improved space efficiency, and enhanced safety, making them a preferred choice in the industry. The batteries will be manufactured at LGES’s factory in Arizona and shipped to Rivian’s Illinois plant, where the R2 is scheduled to begin production in 2026.
Rivian has confirmed this partnership with LGES but has not disclosed any further details. The R2 is expected to have a range of over 300 miles, catering to the growing demand for electric vehicles with long-range capabilities. While the R1S and R1T models from Rivian use nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) batteries from Samsung SDI, the entry-level Standard Range trims feature lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cells from an undisclosed supplier.
David Kim, CEO of LG Energy Solution, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating that the large-scale order for 4695 batteries from Rivian marks a key milestone for LGES in expanding its client base within the cylindrical battery segment. The R2, showcased by Rivian earlier this year, is expected to inherit the adventurous spirit of its predecessor, the R1, and will come equipped with innovative technologies like zonal architecture and haptic control dials on the steering.
With a target starting price of $45,000, the Rivian R2 will compete with popular electric vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Chevy Blazer EV. However, the big question remains whether buyers will opt for the R2 or wait for the anticipated R3 model. Despite garnering over 100,000 pre-orders by July, the final choice rests with the consumers.
In conclusion, the partnership between Rivian and LG Energy Solution for the supply of advanced batteries underscores the growing importance of energy-efficient and high-capacity cells in the electric vehicle market. The Rivian R2 is poised to offer an exciting blend of performance, range, and technology, setting the stage for a new era of electric mobility.