Rivian R2 with LiDAR spotted in the wild

Rivian announced its more affordable R2 model back in February and even opened up its configurator, but we are yet to see shipments start. One notable omission from the configurator, however, is the option to add a LiDAR.

Rivian explained that the LiDAR system won't be included in the R2 for the first few months of production. The reason for that is to expedite the vehicle's release and rack up some much-needed revenue. The LiDAR system will eventually be included in the optional packages in "late 2026."

Now, a spy shot from a Reddit user confirms we are about to see the LiDAR pop up in the R2's configurator sooner rather than later. We are likely seeing the final stages of testing the LiDAR, which will enable advanced self-driving capabilities.

I spy lidar
by u/LawlessSpace in RivianR2

Notably, the LiDAR hardware seems relatively inconspicuous when compared to other LiDAR implementations. The so-called "taxi bump" has been replaced with an indentation above the windshield. We'd say it looks better than the usual way of doing it.

Source