The RivianR2 configurator is now officially live, and amongst the possible options and features, one particular line-item stands out: the option of a space-saving spare tire is a $755 optional extra. Being positioned as a premium electric adventure brand, Rivian has a reputation for rugged, tech-forward, and luxurious design, setting itself apart from the curvaceous and sleek appearance of most other EV manufacturers. Rivian also stands out as being one of the few manufacturers offering a spare wheel on a new car in 2026.
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No More Spare Wheels?
Across the industry, few new vehicles are sold with full-size spare wheels. Instead, new cars tend to be offered with inflation kits, giving you just enough time to make it back home or to the nearest tire shop. Space-saver spare wheels are a luxury.
Tesla's model Y, the segment sales leader, does not come with a factory spare wheel at all; buyers only receive an inflation kit - the Ford Mustang Mach-E offers the same. Hyundai's Ioniq 5 and Kia's EV6 offer a puncture sealant and air compressor.
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As for more rugged competition, Jeep's upcoming Recon, GMC'sHummer, and Land Rover's PHEV Defender - all come with tialgate-mounted full-size spare wheels, and do not cost extra. One could argue that this is because they are purpose-built off-roaders, while Rivian expects the R2 to be used off-road only occasionally.
Tiring Transactions
Just like video games, automobile-related microtransactions are the norm these days. Ranging from software subscriptions for additional features, to spare wheels on new vehicles, which used to be standard equipment not too long ago. Rivian knows that $755 for a safety net may not sound too bad to buyers and is banking on its adventure-oriented demographic willingly paying this tiresome spare-tire tax.
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