The Green Car Journal has named the Rivian R2 its 2026 Electric Green Car of the Year. The award is part of the publication’s second round of 2026 Green Car Awards, which also recognized vehicles from Lexus, Jeep, Ford, and Bintelli. The awards program, running since 2005, evaluates models based on environmental performance, technology, and sustainability.
Highlights
- Rivian R2 takes 2026 Electric Green Car of the Year, with pricing from $45,000 to $57,990 and up to 340 miles of range.
- Lexus ES earns Premium Green Car of the Year for its first battery-electric variants, offering up to 307 miles of range.
- Jeep Cherokee returns as Green 4×4 of the Year with a hybrid powertrain delivering 37 mpg combined and 500-mile range.
- Ford E-Transit wins Commercial Green Car of the Year for its expanded electric fleet configurations starting at $55,655.
Rivian R2 Pricing and Variants
Rivian’s compact R2 SUV brings the automaker’s electric lineup to a broader market. The first model available this spring is the R2 Performance with Launch Package, priced at $57,990. Additional variants include the Premium AWD at $53,990, Standard RWD Long Range at $48,490, and Standard RWD at $45,000. The latter two trims are expected later this year or in 2027. Maximum range reaches 340 miles.
Lexus ES Adds Battery-Electric Options
The Lexus ES earned Premium Green Car of the Year with the introduction of its first battery-electric variants. The ES 350e starts at $48,795 and the ES 500e at $51,795, with driving range up to 307 miles. A hybrid ES 350h with available all-wheel drive is also coming later this year, priced from $50,995.
Jeep Cherokee Returns With Hybrid Powertrain
The all-new Jeep Cherokee won Green 4×4 of the Year as it rejoins the brand’s lineup with a 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid system. The powertrain produces 210 horsepower and achieves 37 mpg combined, with a total range of 500 miles. Starting at $35,000, the Cherokee offers 3,500-pound towing capacity and standard four-wheel drive.
Ford E-Transit Expands Electric Fleet Capability
Ford’s E-Transit earned Commercial Green Car of the Year for its continued development as an electric work vehicle. Updates include expanded configurations and enhanced charging options. Pricing starts at $55,655, and the E-Transit offers an estimated range of up to 159 miles. The van serves delivery, service, and municipal fleet applications.
Bintelli Beyond Fills Neighborhood EV Niche
The Bintelli Beyond took Neighborhood Green Car of the Year. Priced between $11,000 and $16,000, the Beyond is a low-speed EV designed for planned communities and roads posted at 35 mph or below. It includes required safety equipment and offers up to 40 miles of range.
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