--- title: "Rivian Won’t Talk About the Missing R2 Tri-Motor. The Reason Why Is Big" description: "On Thursday, the [Rivian R2 made its formal debut]() with full trim and pricing information, but notably enthusiasts probably should, at least better have, noticed something missing. Where's the tri-otor model?" date: "2026-03-12" modified: "2026-03-12" authors: - name: "Joel Feder" job_title: "Director of Content and Product" link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/joel-feder" url: "https://www.thedrive.com/news/rivian-wont-talk-about-the-missing-r2-tri-motor-the-reason-why-is-big" categories: - "News" - "News by Brand" - "Rivian News" tags: - "Electric Vehicle" --- # Rivian Won’t Talk About the Missing R2 Tri-Motor. The Reason Why Is Big ![Rivian RAD]() On Thursday, the [Rivian R2 made its formal debut]() with full trim and pricing information, but notably enthusiasts probably should, at least better have, noticed something missing. Where's the tri-otor model? Rivian spokesperson Mikhael Farah told *The Drive*, "This is just the beginning for R2, so much more to come ;)." Farah could've just responded with the winky face and been done, but the confirmation that this is just the warm up act should leave enthusiasts on the edge of their seat. RAD is clearly coming. Just two weeks ago [Rivian launched RAD](), which is short for the Rivian Adventure Department, and is basically the automaker's former skunkworks operation gone legit with a budget and green light. Think BMW M or Mercedes-Benz AMG divisions but in the early days. ![Rivian RAD]() The fact that the RAD announcement came two weeks before the R2's formal debut, the promised tri-motor R2 model is missing from the launch matrix that outlines the R2 lineup, and firm and clear non-denial that the tri-motor model is missing from said lineup can lead to only one place: an R2 RAD is coming. Keen-eyed observers will note that the Rivian R1 lineup currently stands with a model matrix that goes from R1 Dual Standard (which is being phased out), R1 Dual, R1 Tri, and [R1 Quad](). Opting for an R1 Dual unlocks the ability to option the Performance Upgrade for $5,000 uncorking the motors for more power and speed. Notably, the R2 lineup looks completely different in terms of model naming. The matrix goes Standard, Standard, another Standard with a larger battery pack and more range, Premium, and Performance. None of these model names say a thing about how many motors are onboard. Weird? No, purposeful. ![2026 Rivian R1S Quad performing Kick Turn]() *R1S Quad *Joel Feder** Expect the R1 lineup to be completely shuffled for the upcoming model year 2027 in the coming months with Dual models being rebranded Standard, Tri models being rebranded Performance, and wait for it, Quad models probably becoming RAD. Which will make the lineups have an R1 RAD with a quad-motor powertrain and the R2 RAD model featuring a tri-motor powertrain. For those that don't remember, Rivian stated two years ago the R2 with a tri-motor powertrain would do 0-60 mph in less than 3.0 seconds. A quad-motor R2 was never promised or discussed, and seems unlikely. But I've seen a pig fly before, though it was a little plastic toy with wings on a string. Still, my eyes saw what they saw. *Got a tip about future product? Drop us a line at tips@thedrive.com* ## Author Overseeing what you see, read, touch, hear, and interact with from the vast lakes of Minnesota, Joel Feder shapes how The Drive looks and operates as the head of content and product initiatives. On a daily basis, Joel leads the newsroom and editorial staff playing point on both short-term coverage and long-term strategic plans. His mission is to help ensure The Drive shapes the future of automotive media by helping the team execute original reporting, breaking news, and exclusive opportunities. Regarded as an industry insider and recognized by colleagues, fellow journalists, and manufacturers as a point-person and leader in the industry, Joel owns and runs the largest automotive professionals group on Facebook in an effort to serve and help others. Joel serves as a juror for the World Car Awards. In addition, he is the board chair and chair of the governance and nominating committee for Move Forward MN, a local non-profit that helps at-risk youth with barrier-free mental health and housing services. While you’re reading this he’s either on his computer or iPhone chasing the latest news or drafting a story. ### Author social links [Instagram]() [LinkedIn]() [Bluesky]() [Email]()