Rivian R2 Buyers Are Learning Reservations Don't Guarantee Priority
The Queue Debate Returns
Placing an order for a newly launched vehicle can be frustrating, especially when automakers appear to let some customers who recently placed a reservation configure their vehicles before those who reserved much earlier. Ford faced similar criticism when the Bronco returned in 2021, and now Rivian is encountering similar concerns as it begins sending out configuration invites for the R2.
According to RivianTrackr, Rivian's configuration email rollout started slowly but is now ramping up. While that may be good news for some reservation holders, the publication also highlighted cases where customers who reserved earlier have yet to receive an order invitation to continue the delivery process. That has become even more noticeable as some customers who placed reservations later have already received configuration emails
Kind of crazy to see folks who placed an R2 reservation weeks ago get invited whilst others who put it reservations in years ago, silence. The logic is… weird. https://t.co/fKjOKObC2b
— Jose | RivianTrackr (@RivianTrackr) June 17, 2026
Who Gets Priority?
If that's the case, it appears Rivian is not strictly following a first-come, first-served approach. Unsurprisingly, that has drawn criticism from some who view the process as unfair. However, the rollout appears to align with earlier statements that certain customers may receive priority based on various factors.
Rivian said customers located near its Service and Demo Centers are more likely to receive configuration invites first. Such an approach can make deliveries more efficient while also allowing the company to respond more quickly if issues arise. Rivian employees did take delivery of R2s in April 2026, helping the automaker identify and address potential problems before the public rollout. But of course, delivering vehicles to the broader market introduces far more variables, so taking precautions is understandable.
Other factors that may give certain customers priority include whether they currently own an R1 or are nearing the end of a lease. However, the company also noted that a random group of reservation holders will receive early order invitations to help make the process fairer for everyone.
Rivian Can't Afford To Miss
The structured order process may be in place because Rivian knows how important the R2 is to the company's future. While the R1 lineup remains a premium offering, the R2 is intended to bring the brand into the mainstream and is expected to drive sales. It will also go head-to-head with the Tesla Model Y, which has long been the best-selling EV in the U.S.
Pricing starts at $57,990 for the flagship Performance trim. More affordable variants will follow, including the mid-spec Premium later this year and the entry-level Standard model in 2027.
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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 5:00 PM.