According to Cox Automotive's Q3 sales report, Rivian became the #2 EV brand in the US, up from 10th a year earlier, overtaking Chevrolet. The report shows most brands saw EV sales declines, with exceptions including Rivian, Mercedes, Lexus, Toyota, and Subaru.
Rivian's growth is attributed to the launch of its R2, a smaller, more affordable SUV. The company sold 3,456 R2 units in Q3, fewer than its R1S, but the cheaper price is expected to boost volume as production ramps up. Tesla remains #1 despite a nearly 20% year-over-year sales drop.
The source notes that GM still holds second place when all its brands are combined, but Rivian's continued growth could challenge that. The broader market context includes high oil prices and policy barriers that have restricted affordable EV access, while automakers have cancelled models, limiting supply.