A 94-year-old woman in Andhra Pradesh, India, has attracted widespread attention after she renounced her U.S. citizenship. Country of Citizenship She also asked the authorities to restore her Indian citizenship, expressing her wish to spend the rest of her life in the country of her birth.
A 94-year-old woman from Andhra Pradesh is seeking restoration of her Indian citizenship after giving up her US citizenship.
Kondragunta Mahalakshmamma, who hails from Chinthugumpala village in Chinaganjam mandal of Bapatra district, recently approached the district officials with a heartfelt plea to expedite her citizenship application. A video documenting her interaction went viral on social media. Post on X says, ‘I want to die like an Indian’: 94-year-old gives up U.S. citizenship“.
Mahalakshmamma, accompanied by her son Buchiah Choudhary, met Bapatra district magistrate J. Venkata Murali on Wednesday and requested the authorities to speed up the process of restoring her Indian citizenship.
Kondragunta Mahalakshmamma received US citizenship in 2000
After the death of her husband, Nagabhushanam, Mahalakshmamma moved to Petersburg, Virginia, to live with her son, an oncologist. She obtained U.S. citizenship in July 2000 and lived in the United States for nearly 18 years before returning to India in 2018.
After her son joined the NRI hospital in Mangalagiri, she decided to settle down permanently in her hometown. After returning home, she has always expressed her desire to regain Indian citizenship and live out the rest of her life in her home country.
The 94-year-old woman told officials that she had renounced her U.S. citizenship and submitted an application for Indian citizenship through a government portal. She said her ultimate wish was to rest in peace in her hometown.
“Garu Collector, I am almost 95 years old. My only wish is to spend my last days in my motherland as a citizen of India. I want my last rites to be performed in my hometown. I have renounced my motherland.” U.S. citizenship. Please help me to get Indian citizenship at the earliest. ” she appealed.
Here’s what Kondragunta Mahalakshmamma told officials about her citizenship
She also assured the authorities that she would abide by the Indian Constitution and abide by all relevant laws if her citizenship is restored. She expressed her hope to gain legal recognition and live out the rest of her life as an Indian citizen.
The district collector told her that her application would be processed as per established procedures. Once the necessary investigations are completed, officials will prepare a report for the Andhra Pradesh government and then send its recommendations to the central government to take a decision on her citizenship application.
Netizen reaction
Meanwhile, some people have reacted to the woman’s viral video, with one
Many users criticized the woman’s move, with some asking her why she wanted to return to India after spending more than 20 years in the United States.
“I don’t agree…she left India for so many years and now she wants to come back? She shouldn’t actually be given…” commented another.
“When did collectors start granting citizenship. Grandma and her relatives are very aware of due process. You post just for likes and retweets,” a third user wrote.
UAE expands visa on arrival program to allow more eligible travelers to enjoy streamlined entry/image documentation
The UAE has announced a significant expansion of its visa on arrival scheme, making it easier for thousands of eligible international travelers to enter the country without having to apply for a visa in advance. The move, announced by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), expands the list of travelers who can benefit from visa on arrival facilities and is part of the country’s wider strategy to enhance tourism, business travel and global connectivity.The updated regulations, which took effect on June 25, allow eligible travelers holding Indian and Philippine passports to obtain a visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa, residence permit or green card issued by one of several approved countries. UAE authorities said the changes reflected the country’s commitment to promoting international mobility while cementing its position as one of the world’s leading tourism, investment and business destinations.
The biggest change affects Indian nationals holding ordinary passports. Previously, only those holding a valid visa, residence permit or green card from the United States, the United Kingdom or an EU member state were eligible to obtain a UAE visa on arrival. Under the expanded policy, eligibility is now extended to travelers holding valid visas or residence permits issued by Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore and South Korea.The same expansion was practiced by Filipino nationals. They can now get a UAE visa on arrival if they hold a valid visa, residence permit or green card from the United States, EU countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore or South Korea. Officials said the broader eligibility criteria are intended to streamline travel procedures while strengthening ties with key international markets.The initiative aims to “facilitate travel to the UAE” and enhance the country’s appeal as a global destination for tourists, investors and business professionals, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
Eligible travelers arriving under the revised scheme can choose between two visa options depending on the length of their visit. The standard visa on arrival allows tourists to stay in the UAE for 14 days and is issued for AED 100. Those wishing to stay in the country longer can extend their visa for a further 14 days for an additional Dh250.For tourists planning long-distance travel, the UAE has also introduced a 60-day visa on arrival option priced at AED 250. Unlike shorter visas, this option cannot be extended and is suitable for travelers who already know they need to stay longer. Immigration authorities will issue a visa after verifying the traveler’s passport and an eligible foreign visa, residence permit or green card.
UAE expands visa policy
The latest changes are part of the UAE’s wider vision to position itself as one of the most connected and tourist-friendly countries in the world. The government has introduced a series of immigration reforms over the past few years, including a long-term residency scheme, expanded golden visa categories and more flexible tourist visa options, all aimed at attracting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, investors and international visitors.According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the expanded visa on arrival program supports the country’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships while providing faster and more convenient travel for eligible travelers. Officials believe the changes will encourage more tourism, boost business travel and strengthen the UAE’s role as a global aviation and business hub connecting Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
What travelers should know
Although the process has become simpler, travelers must still ensure that they meet all eligibility requirements before departing for the UAE. Their passport must be valid and an eligible visa, residence permit or green card issued by one of the approved countries must also remain valid while traveling. Standard immigration checks will continue to be carried out at UAE entry points before a visa is issued on arrival.With this latest expansion, the UAE has once again demonstrated its commitment to making international travel smoother while supporting tourism and economic growth. For eligible travelers from India and the Philippines, the revised rules provide greater flexibility, faster entry procedures and the option to stay in the UAE for up to 60 days without the need to obtain a visa before departure.
almost five months later Nancy Guthrie The investigation takes another unexpected turn when she disappears from her Tucson residence.
In a new development surrounding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, a demand letter suggests multiple kidnappers may be involved. (Savannah Guthrie/Facebook)
A recently revealed demand letter claimed that two people were suspected of kidnapping and that evidence to identify them had been withheld. This new development brings additional ambiguity to a case that already has ransom notelingering questions and an ongoing federal investigation.
New allegations emerge amid ongoing investigation Nancy Guthrie is missing as a recent demand letter purportedly alleges that multiple people were involved in the kidnapping of the 84-year-old woman.
According to People magazine, the letter was sent to TMZ by an individual claiming they had evidence relevant to the case. The sender claimed to have “a cell phone hidden in a safe location” that contained a video of the alleged “main character” with Nancy, who the author described as “possibly her last day.”
Nancy Guthrie update: Are two kidnappers involved?
The letter also claimed that the device contained images of both parties involved, along with their names, addresses and ages, meaning two alleged kidnappers were responsible.
TMZ revealed that the latest message originated from the same email address previously used to send ransom letters related to the case.
The new newsletter also mentions the previous Bitcoin wallet while providing alternative cryptocurrency addresses.
At this time, none of the recent claims have been publicly confirmed by investigators.
Here’s what the new ransom note says:
The latest letter joins a series of old communications sent by Nancy’s kidnapper after she disappeared from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1.
Earlier this week, information about one of the alleged ransom notes was made public. CNN and NBC News reported that Nancy died unexpectedly shortly after being kidnapped.
The note allegedly expressed condolences over her death but did not apologize or demand payment in exchange for the return of her body.
The communication follows a previous ransom request, demanding millions of dollars in Bitcoin in exchange for Nancy’s safe return.
KOLD News anchor Mary Coleman previously described the earlier note as containing “concerning” details before it was turned over to investigators.
Authorities have not verified the authenticity of the message and Nancy’s location remains unknown.
As the investigation approaches five months, no arrests have been made and no suspects have been named.
The UK government will introduce a sweeping immigration and asylum bill next week that will open up new Canadian-inspired legal pathways for refugees while tightening rules around human rights and modern slavery claims.Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the reforms aimed to protect “genuine refugees” while restoring public confidence in the UK’s asylum system, the BBC reported.Under the proposed framework, community groups, charities, churches and selected universities would be allowed to sponsor refugees seeking protection in the UK.The model is based on Canada’s Community Sponsorship Program, which has helped resettle nearly 400,000 refugees since 1979.Sponsored refugees under Canada’s system show stronger integration effects, with a higher proportion of those arriving through traditional government-led programs finding work within a year, the Interior Department said.A separate route allowing employers to sponsor refugees is also expected to be introduced next year.
Applications for the university-sponsored refugee route are expected to open later this year, with the first refugees likely to apply from 2027. Employers may also choose to sponsor refugees through dedicated work pathways.While ministers did not reveal the number of refugees that would be admitted, officials said arrivals would initially be capped and scaled down before being significantly expanded beyond the current UK resettlement scheme.
As well as the new legal avenues, the government plans to impose tighter restrictions on asylum and deportation appeals. The proposed legislation would narrow the definition of “family” in Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), limiting it primarily to immediate family members.The bill will also seek to strengthen the use of modern slavery protections. Convicted aliens and aliens found to have submitted fraudulent documents may lose eligibility for current safeguards that defer deportation. Ministers believe the changes are necessary to prevent last-minute claims being used to block evictions.
Division of labor emerges in asylum strategies
The reforms exposed divisions within the Labor Party. Some MPs and refugee advocates believe the expansion of safe and legal routes is welcome, but fear restrictions on asylum claims and immigration rights could undermine the UK’s humanitarian obligations.Senior Labor peer Lord Alf Dubs criticized the government’s approach, saying some elements of the policy were too harsh and urging a wider reconsideration of asylum reform. Critics also point to the suspension of refugee family reunification routes and warn that limited legal pathways could push vulnerable people onto dangerous journeys.The announcement comes against a backdrop of political uncertainty, with Andy Burnham widely expected to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister next month. Mahmoud is seeking support ahead of the immigration bill being tabled in parliament and remains one of the front-runners to remain as home secretary under the Burnham government.The rollout has also been overshadowed by tensions within the government after Mahmoud reportedly clashed with deputy minister Mike Tapp over immigration proposals, including potential exemptions for carers. Downing Street rejects request to take disciplinary action against ministerThe Immigration and Asylum Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament next week. If approved, community sponsorship and university pathways could start accepting applications within months, marking one of the biggest changes to the UK’s refugee system in years.Ministers insisted the reforms struck a balance between providing asylum to genuine refugees and restoring public confidence in the asylum system. Opponents, however, argue that tighter legal restrictions could obscure the expansion of safe routes.
A man who crossed continents, faked his identity and even fabricated his death in an extraordinary attempt to avoid arrest and extradition has died in a U.S. prison.Nicholas Rossi, the convicted rapist in the United States who made international headlines for allegedly faking his own death and fleeing to Scotland, died Thursday night in a Utah hospital where he was serving time for two rapes.The Utah Department of Corrections said the 38-year-old man died from complications related to a pre-existing condition after choosing to stop treatment. Authorities said his family and victims have been informed.Rossi, born Nicholas Alahverdian in Rhode Island, was convicted in a separate trial in 2024 for raping two women in Utah in 2008 and is currently serving a 10-year to life sentence.His downfall follows one of the most bizarre escape sagas in recent memory. In 2020, an online obituary said Rosie died of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But investigators became suspicious, particularly because he was wanted in connection with rape charges and other investigations in the United States.The mystery was revealed in 2021 when Rossi was reportedly recognized in an Interpol notice by staff at Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, where he was being treated in the coronavirus ward. Unique tattoos helped identify him, although he insisted he was actually “Arthur Knight,” an orphan born in Ireland who never set foot in the United States.For years, Rossi fought extradition in Scottish courts, attending hearings in a wheelchair, often wearing an oxygen mask and formal suits while insisting he was a victim of mistaken identity. He has repeatedly denied that he is Rossi and dismissed evidence linking him to a fugitive wanted by the United States.A Scottish court ultimately rejected his claim, with the judge describing his story as unbelievable. After various legal challenges, he was extradited to the United States in January 2024 and later admitted his true identity in court proceedings.Utah prosecutors have described Rossi as a serial sexual predator who spent years trying to avoid accountability. One victim testified that Rossi began abusing her shortly after a whirlwind engagement and raped her in 2008. Another woman said she was assaulted after being confronted by him, who she claimed had stolen money.Salt Lake County Prosecutor Sim Gill said Rossi tried to evade justice for years but eventually died in prison after his public conviction.“Mr. Rossi was a sexual predator who sought to evade responsibility,” Gill said, adding that his victims can take some comfort knowing he died in prison with full awareness of his crimes.
president Donald Trump Unveiled a redesigned U.S. passport that prominently displays his face.
President Donald Trump has unveiled a redesigned U.S. passport featuring his image and the words “Welcome, but be kind!” Part of a limited edition commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The visuals of the page also show Trump’s The president signed with a serious expression.
New US Passport: Here’s What You Need to Know
In April this year, White House It was announced that special passports will be issued in conjunction with the 250th anniversary celebration of the United States’ Declaration of Independence in July.
The limited-edition design commemorates this important milestone in U.S. history and is reportedly available to “any U.S. citizen” applying for a passport and can also be purchased at the Passport Office in Washington.
Trump mocks netizens’ reaction to new US passports
The design has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some calling it “the most patriotic” United States Passport once. ” Others refer to it as a “patriot’s” passport.
“President Trump just launched this new EPIC passport,” one person reacted.
“President Trump announced epic A new American passport for patriots. Prompt crash! said another.
However. Some were skeptical, with some critics questioning Trump’s presence in the photo because he was in front of the Declaration of Independence.
“America is 250 years old and Trump still looks at the passport and thinks: need more of me,” one person said, while another wrote: “Thank God: The Trump Image Passport is a limited-edition commemorative passport, not the standard passport most Americans receive.”
Next to Trump is a famous piece of art depicting the signing of the Declaration, with the words “United States of America” and the number 250 below it.
One of Trump’s critics wrote: “A U.S. passport is not the same as a visa to enter the United States, but Trump doesn’t know that.”
Others also took issue with Trump’s “Welcome, but be kind!” Some suggested he may have confused it with the process of obtaining citizenship.
UN Human Rights Commission accuses Pakistan of withholding aid
Pakistan has been accused of imposing a severe crackdown in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), including road blockades, mass arrests and the use of counter-terrorism laws, resulting in a “serious humanitarian crisis”, according to testimony to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).Mirza Shafiq, chairman of the Swiss Kashmir Human Rights Commission, said in a speech during the 62nd session of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights that roads connecting the region to Pakistan have been blocked by police and rangers, disrupting the transportation of basic supplies including food, medicine and other necessities.“These restrictions could trigger widespread unrest across the region,” Shafiq said, describing the situation as “brutal rather than political.”He expressed concern about his 90-year-old mother’s deteriorating health, saying he had been unable to contact her for nearly three weeks and was having trouble getting her weekly medication.
British People’s Party lodges protest at UN in Geneva
The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) also staged a demonstration at the iconic Broken Chair Memorial outside the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, coinciding with a meeting of the United Nations Human Rights Council. UKPNP leaders Jamil Maqsood and Amjad Yousuf condemned the actions of the Pakistani army and security forces, specifically mentioning the June 7 shooting in Rawalakot that left many dead and injured.Shafiq claimed that more than 22 people were allegedly killed, 576 people were arrested and 34 people were booked under the anti-terrorism law as protests continued across PoJK in the past 20 days. He also claimed that the bodies of some of the victims had not yet been returned to their families.He urged the international community to intervene and facilitate dialogue between the Pakistan government and the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC).
Violations raised in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Pashtun human rights defender Fazal Ur Rehman Afridi also addressed the UN Human Rights Council, accusing Pakistan of widespread human rights violations in Pashtun, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.Afridi claimed that the situation in PoJK had become “extremely critical” after JKJAAC was banned. He claimed that Pakistani security forces launched a violent crackdown that left dozens of civilians dead and hundreds injured.He also condemned the reported life sentence imposed on Baloch human rights activist Dr Mahrang Baloch, saying the judiciary was compromised and called for her immediate release.Afridi urged the United Nations Human Rights Council to launch an international investigation into the allegations and demanded unrestricted access for international rights organizations and journalists to conflict-affected areas.
looking for Nancy Guthrie Continuing on, a person claiming to be an investigator shared another photo of son-in-law Tommaso Cioni. Jonathan Lee Riches, or JLR, who has been covering the case in Tucson since the beginning, shared Cioni’s photo on X.
It is believed that Maso Sione dropped Nancy Guthrie home the night before she was reported missing. (X/@JLRINVESTIGATES)
“Tommaso Sione is hanging out with people at school. Where is Nancy Guthrie?” he wrote.
This isn’t the first time Jaguar Land Rover has shared photos of Cioni or his wife. Anne Guthrie. In the past, he has also dug up old photos and posted them, usually asking where Nancy Guthrie was. 84-year-old TODAY host mother Savannah Guthrie She was reported missing on February 1 from her home in the Catalina Foothills near Tucson, Arizona. Authorities believe she was kidnapped the night before.
Four months later, no suspects have been released. Meanwhile, speculation continues surrounding Savannah’s sister Anne and her husband Sioney. This occurred despite the fact that the lead investigative agency, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, had made it clear that the Guthrie family would not be considered suspects in the case. Public interest in Sioney and his wife has continued since the octogenarian was believed to have dined with Anne before Sioney dropped her off home the night before he was reported missing. This would make them one of the last people to see her before her abduction.
It is worth noting that Tommaso Cioni is a secondary school teacher who worked at BASIS Oro Valley. Photos shared by Jaguar Land Rover show him resting his hands on the shoulders of two people wearing BASIS Oro Valley apparel – as emblazoned on the purple tops. Their faces are blurred in the photo, but Sione is looking straight into the camera.
The photo sparked mixed reactions online.
Tommaso Cioni’s photo sparks reaction
one person commented “His eyes give me a bad feeling.” Others additional “Creepy. Students should not be touched either.” However, there was no suggestion that the person photographed with Sione was a student and not a staff member.
Another one explain “I agree that his eyes are creepy in every picture he takes.” Others, meanwhile, are more supportive of Cione, who has been unnecessarily subject to public speculation since former NewsNation reporter Ashley Banfield claimed he was a possible suspect in the case. Notably, her claims were quickly dismissed by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department.
“But you, me and your army don’t know him. It seems to me wrong to judge him for a horrific crime with zero information. Is there an interview with him? I don’t like being judged like that. Let those sins cast the first stone,” one person explain In his defence. Another netizen pointed out that there is nothing unusual about teachers taking pictures at school. “Yes, that’s what teachers do…” They wrote.
Two of the most repressed countries end up taking part in FIFA’s ‘Pride Match’
Rainbow flags flew amid a sea of Iranian and Egyptian flags at Seattle’s World Cup Stadium on Friday as teams from two of the most repressive countries against LGBTQ+ people took the field in a game that became an unlikely symbol of inclusivity.Coincidentally, the city’s “Pride Battle” ended up being a high-stakes showdown between Iran and Egypt, with promotion to Group G still undetermined and a move strongly opposed by both countries. But Seattle officials and its football community say the unique pairing is an opportunity to showcase the city’s inclusivity.“I don’t think there is a sport that has a global event like the World Cup that creates unity and diversity and brings together so many cultures,” said Jess Fishlock, captain of National Women’s Soccer League club Seattle Reign. “I think we can see that firsthand at Pride.”
Same-sex relations are illegal in Iran and gays are executed for sodomy, while Egypt prosecutes gays and suppresses outward expressions of gay pride, including the rainbow flag.In December last year, these countries complained to FIFA about the Pride Match and requested that the celebrations be cancelled. The Iranian Football Association said in a statement that it had made its position clear to FIFA in multiple letters and meetings and assured that “no ceremonies or promotional activities related to this issue will be held in the stadium nor will it be used as part of the official game plan.”“Iran and Egypt are two Muslim countries with deep cultural and religious commonalities, and the views expressed by the two federations reflect the common values and beliefs of the two peoples,” the Iranian federation said.In a major shift from the 2022 World Cup, FIFA now considers the rainbow flag a human rights statement and will allow fans to wave it in stadiums, said Hana Tadesse, a spokesperson for the World Cup organizing committee in Seattle. FIFA confirms that “rainbow flags and other flags representing sexual orientation and gender identity are allowed fifa world cup Stadium Code of Conduct 2026. “
Seattle organizers decided on Pride’s branding ahead of December’s World Cup draw. When the group stage schedule was set, the Seattle committee found itself looking to the Pride celebrations as a shoulder plan for a game involving two countries that criminalize same-sex relations.FIFA president Gianni Infantino tried to downplay the Pride branding in a January interview, saying: “I have to clarify, there will be no Pride match at the World Cup. Seattle will host FIFA World Cup matches on the same day as events organized by outside organizations. But this has nothing to do with the game itself. “The Human Dignity Trust said the Iranian state criminalizes homosexuality and imposes the maximum death penalty under its criminal code. It also said same-sex sex is prohibited in Egypt and provides for prison sentences and fines.
Seattle embraces inclusivity
Invited by the local organizing committee, Stacy Harbor, who works for an LGBTQ+ nonprofit, took 20 young people to the game and handed them “goodie bags” filled with Pride face paint, flags and headbands.“Seattle is home to a group of people of Egyptian, Iranian descent. This is an opportunity for them to represent their intersectional identities,” she said. “This is an opportunity to show the world what Seattle is like. Seattle is an inclusive city. We always have been and always will be. “Ilona Lohrey, president and CEO of the Greater Seattle Business Association, an LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce, described Seattle as one of the most inclusive cities in the country.“I think it gives us an opportunity to showcase who we are as a city, who we are as a people and how diversity makes us stronger,” Lore said.With input from The Associated Press and The Athletic
American electric car maker Rivian (did you know they make electric cars with sad, laughing clown eyes?) held a media event for its new R2 SUV near Park City, Utah, two weeks ago. I’ll spare you the clinical detachment: it’s awesome. I want one. I will buy one. Exactly within a year. Please don’t tell my wife.
The Rivian R2 Performance (pictured in Launch Green) is the American electric carmaker’s third production vehicle, following the large luxury R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV.
In fact, I rate Rivian’s charming, innovative new Terrain Robot as one of the best vehicle designs in the world, not least because it looks convincingly like an SUV, with its culturally relevant hatchback silhouette, taller wheels and tires (32 inches), higher ground clearance (9.6 inches), steeper windshield angle, flatter hood and roof, and a squarer cross-section. If you let me, this is what Americans want their SUVs to look like, not robot lawnmowers from alien golf courses (I’m looking at you, Toyota bZ).
The best-selling electric car in the United States is Tesla’s Model Y, and it’s not an SUV. The R2 exploits the Model Y’s biggest weakness.
Rivian will release the R2 midsize SUV in phases by early 2027. The series debuts with the R2 Performance, available now with a dual-motor combination producing 656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque.
For Rivian’s team, overcoming the aerodynamic drag inherent in traditional core designs was a doubly difficult task that required extensive computer simulations and iterative, millimeter-scale modeling. Details can be hard to see: note that the windshield wipers are located in a recessed area below the hood line (sunroof), so they don’t interfere with airflow over the windshield. Admire the stocking smoothness of the window frames around the cottage greenhouse. With the help of this AI-optimized slipstream, the R2 Performance’s 88 kWh battery pack is expected to provide a range of 330 miles, slightly better than the Model Y Premium (327 miles). Check the box.
By comparison, the R2 is slightly larger than the Toyota RAV4 and is the California-based automaker’s third product, following the large luxury R1T and R1S (pickup and SUV). The first R2 Performance vehicles are now available, starting at just under $60,000, which is about $25,000 lighter than the R1S. Later this year, Rivian plans to release the R2 Premium (starting at $53,990). In early 2027, the single-motor R2 Standard should drop, starting at just $44,990. I figured I had to tell my wife something then.
In some ways, the R2’s overall excellence couldn’t have come at a better time. The R2 project was started almost from scratch to take advantage of the latest advances in automotive manufacturing and global supply chains (China). Most first-generation electric vehicle projects require a traditional electrical architecture, consisting of dozens of electronic control modules (ECMs) dedicated to specific functions (windows, doors, wipers, brakes), all connected by miles of thick wires. R2’s new zone control architecture is neatly arranged across three large processors. The shorter wires reduce overall weight by 44 pounds and make production less susceptible to chip shortages.
The Rivian R2’s minimalist cabin décor features high-quality textiles in restrained tones. The central touchscreen runs Rivian’s operating system, Rivian OS. The R2 does not support Apple CarPlay.
Another sign of maturity: a body mass index of R2. This midsize five-passenger, four-door, two-motor SUV has a significantly stiffer hybrid metal monocoque body and body panels and can weigh up to 5,000 pounds. That’s about a ton lighter than the R1S and 455 pounds lighter than the current Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, a near-IC-powered sibling.
Historically, high battery costs have tended to replace customer-facing value – the goodies we can’t have, like top-of-the-line sound systems, premium interiors and finishes, the latest communications and connectivity. The R2 Performance has no advantage over similar products in its price range. Technology investors will love interacting with the R2’s unique Haptic Halo selector, housed in the steering wheel’s side arm. These electronically damped wheel selectors provide three-axis inputs, using micro-torque feedback to simulate the bump and pull of physical brakes. Many people find them very intuitive. I need to practice.
Wheelie trading allows drivers to harness the R2’s ultra-intelligent, ultra-fast user experience, with crisp, easy-to-read graphics and playful animations spread across the compass display and display in the center of the dash. Input lag is no longer an issue. Note: Rivian does not support Apple CarPlay; instead, it has its own device connection protocol and navigation embedded in the Rivian operating system.
The Haptic Halo controller is one of the innovations of the 2027 Rivian R2. These three-axis controllers are mounted in the side arms of the steering wheel and use micro-torque feedback to simulate the bump and pull of physical brakes.
The highlight of any walk around is the R2’s power hatch window, which is so practical I could barely contain myself. Surfboards, ladders, stockpiles of lumber, perennial Christmas trees – all can be extended out of the open hatch window long enough to get where you need to go.
Whether on the road or on gravel, the R2 Performance is a luxury car. Our example, equipped with the starter pack spec, did just that, shaking off the red light like a frightened tarpon, and I just hung on. In rally mode (exclusive to high-performance models), the battery can provide up to 646 horsepower to front- and rear-mounted AC synchronous motors. Rivian officially reports a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. Meanwhile, a combined 609 pound-feet of torque works out to 4,400 pounds of towing capacity.
The company says the R2 has a maximum charging power of 230 kW and can restore approximately 150 miles of range in 15 minutes, or 10%-80% of charge in 30 minutes. The R2 uses a NACS charging plug, and the car has access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
Price is the final frontier of parity. The R2 Performance version starts at $57,990. That includes the whole smash: a full 656 horsepower electronically tuned with rear bias, dual-motor AWD and 21-inch tires. However, if you call the White House in the next five minutes (not really), Rivian is offering the Launch Package as a free option that includes a towing package, Nvidia-powered driver assistance technology (Autonomy+), and a Launch Key Fob.
There is no mass-market electric car in the world that offers better value for money. I’m sure my wife would agree.
2027 Rivian R2 Performance and Release Kit
The R2 Performance version starts at $57,990. That includes the whole smash: a full 656 horsepower electronically tuned with rear bias, dual-motor AWD and 21-inch tires.
base price $57,990
test price $61,485
Propulsion Fully electric with dual AC synchronous motors, 88 kWh, 400V lithium-ion battery pack, rear biased, multi-mode/terrain all-wheel drive.
