$Tesla Motors(TSLA)$ The 2027 Rivian R2 marks the company's first real push into the mainstream EV segment. The R1T and R1S are too big and pricey for most, but the R2 hits that sweet spot. Priced between $45,000 and $60,000, it goes head-to-head with Tesla, BMW, and others, aiming to bring the Rivian experience to a much broader audience. It's a good thing they really got it right with this one.

The R2 isn't just a scaled-down R1S. This SUV is packed with innovations, like simplified wiring to cut costs and new electronic management hardware that makes the R2 easier to repair than Rivian's other vehicles. It features high-res cameras and sensors and will soon support point-to-point hands-free driving. And none of this comes at the expense of losing the rugged, go-anywhere character that defines the Rivian brand.