For years, Rivian has looked like one of the most compelling electric vehicle companies in America — and maybe the car maker most equipped to take on Tesla. All that potential comes down to this: the R2, the long-awaited and more affordable car that Rivian hopes can make it truly mainstream. After a journey to the R2's factory earlier this year, The Verge's Andrew Hawkins explains what the R2 is, why it matters, and what happens to Rivian if it's a hit — or a flop.

Further reading:

• ⁠Range anxiety⁠

• ⁠The Rivian R2 is too much fun to let drive itself⁠

• ⁠Rivian surprises with R3 and R3X electric SUVs⁠

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