R2: Ready for the Wild

Our latest vehicle wraps signal the start of real-world validation

By Rivian

May 22^nd, 2025

Our R2 development fleet has begun taking to the roads—and trails—gathering real-world feedback, refining performance and helping us tune every detail.

In this phase of validation, production-intent vehicles are put through long cycles and extreme conditions, all to ensure R2 is ready for any adventure you may have in 2026 and far beyond.

As these vehicles head into the wild, they'll be wrapped in a colorful, custom camouflage. While the R2 design has already been revealed, our latest wraps serve as a reminder that even in the most technical phases of development, there’s still room to have a little fun.

We caught up with Jonathan Szczupak, our Senior Director of Exterior Design, as he put the final touches on the wraps before the vehicles headed out.

Why do we wrap development vehicles in the first place?

Jonathan: It’s mostly functional—camouflage helps keep certain design elements less visible while we test. But it's also tradition in the automotive world, and a bit of a signal: R2 testing and validation is underway in the real world.

With R2 already revealed, why keep the wraps?

Jonathan: Even though the exterior design is out there, there are still small updates happening as we refine the product. The wraps help keep attention on the right things, while also letting us stay flexible during development.

What inspired these new wrap designs?

Jonathan: We looked to the outdoors—textures, patterns, movement. We wanted to wrap R2 in nature and have it feel alive, dynamic, and a little mysterious. Almost like a children’s storybook. Something you’d want to take a second look at and explore deeper.

Are there any hidden Easter eggs in the designs?

Jonathan: There might be. We like to layer in little surprises—shapes, references and nods to Rivian that aren’t obvious at first glance. It’s a way to reward curiosity.

Could a wrap design like this ever make it into production?

Jonathan: Never say never. People have been asking, and we’re definitely listening. Right now, it’s just for development—but we’re always exploring ways to bring more personality into the ownership experience.

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