Rivian says its R2 Performance SUV has achieved a 50% reduction in lifetime greenhouse-gas emissions compared with its original 2022 R1 vehicles, reaching a target set for 2030 four years early. The result is significant because the R2 is intended as a relatively affordable, mass-market SUV rather than a small or unusually expensive model, while Rivian’s progress comes as the wider car industry faces weaker electric-vehicle demand and reduced government support.

The company attributes the reduction to improved aerodynamics, lower weight, greater efficiency and extensive use of recycled materials. R2 components include floor mats made from 99% ocean waste, frunk and trim containing 85% post-consumer recycled material, and battery cell trays made entirely from recycled resin; Rivian says the vehicle produces 58% fewer lifetime emissions than a comparable petrol-powered car. The company expects to deliver about 70,000 vehicles in 2026, up from roughly 42,000 last year, and has also published AI principles covering safety, fairness, privacy, transparency and executive oversight.