Which Electric SUV offers more money?

Rivian has released key details about its upcoming R2 SUV. The R2 could be revolutionary for the electric car company as its most affordable model.

Tesla has sold millions of units of the Model Y electric SUV since the nameplate debuted. Rivian has the opportunity to create a true rival to the Tesla Model Y with the R2, something the industry has yet to see. Many of the Model Y’s competitors have made gains, but all electric SUVs have fallen short when it comes to sales and overall value.

Is the Rivian R2 the Model Y competitor the industry and electric car fans have been waiting for? Here’s how to compare the two.

Rivian R2 has a lot of promises based on the released specs

Rivian has made good on its promise to create an affordable electric SUV. The R2 starts at around $45,000 (but the Launch Edition is more expensive at $57,990).

The R2 produces 350 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque. It can go from 0-60 miles per hour in 5.9 seconds. The EV has over 275 kilometers of typical driving range.

The exact charging time has not been announced, but Rivian estimates that the EV can charge from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes, which is fast for its segment.

The affordable base model of the R2 may not come out as fast as the top-of-the-line models, but it delivers solid value for money (on paper).

Tesla Model Y is the best selling electric SUV

Tesla’s electric SUV is the undisputed best-seller with 357,528 units sold in the US by 2025, according to Cox Automotive.

The Tesla Model Y starts at $39,990 before taxes, fees and incentives. It produces 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The electric SUV goes from 0-60 miles per hour in 6.8 seconds.

The rear-wheel drive base model has an estimated range of 321 miles, which is excellent for its segment and price. It charges from 10%-80% in about 24-26 minutes using the Tesla Supercharger.

Rivian R2 vs. Tesla Model Y: Details

The Model Y is slightly more affordable than the upcoming Rivian R2 electric SUV. When it comes to power and acceleration, the R2 is the superior EV.

It produces 55 more horsepower than the Model Y and 45 more pound-feet of torque. The R2 goes from 0-60 miles per hour quicker than the Model Y too, which makes it a lot more fun to drive.

Tesla’s electric SUV has 46 kilometers more than the most affordable range, which is a big deal for electric car buyers. In a world where charging infrastructure has a long way to go, this puts the Model Y ahead of the Rivian R2 significantly.

Both vehicles charge quickly by today’s standards, but Tesla’s Superchargers are designed specifically with Tesla charging stations in mind, making times much easier for Model Y owners.

Rivian R2 vs. Tesla Model Y: Design

The R2 takes several design cues from its older sibling, the R1 electric SUV. One key design difference between the Rivian R2 and the Tesla Model Y is the ground clearance.

Rivian’s R2 electric SUV is an impressive 9.6 inches long without air suspension, says electric vehicle news site InsideEVs. That’s three inches more ground clearance than the Model Y, which points to a distinct difference in body styles.

Rivian says its EVs are “made for fun” on its website. In other words, Rivians are one of the few EVs made with off-roading and trails in mind. The R2 embodies this ethos and is perfect for drivers looking for an electric car that can take on the road at a slower pace.

If you’re a regular driver looking for one of the most affordable electric SUV options, the Tesla Model Y is a smart and practical choice. If you want to experience the software, capability and driving experience exclusive to Rivian cars, the R2 is worth the wait.

Rivian’s R2 is a true competitor to the Tesla Model Y, but it may not be the best option in the eyes of the average American driver. If you’re looking for an EV that can do amazing things and top out at 60 miles per hour, the R2 is the best buy.

This article first appeared on USA TODAY: Rivian R2 vs. Tesla Model Y: Which electric SUV offers more money?

Reporting by Charles Singh, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect