Rivian is an independent, publicly traded American automotive company, not a brand or subsidiary of any other car manufacturer. Founded in 2009 by RJ Scaringe, Rivian Automotive, Inc. designs, develops, and manufactures electric vehicles (EVs) and related accessories. The company is headquartered in Irvine, California, with its main manufacturing plant located in Normal, Illinois.
Rivian's core strategy focuses on what it calls "adventure vehicles," targeting the consumer and commercial markets with a strong emphasis on off-road capability and sustainability. Its initial product lineup includes the R1T, an all-electric pickup truck, and the R1S, an all-electric SUV. Both vehicles are built on Rivian's flexible "skateboard" platform, which integrates the battery pack, drive units, suspension, and braking system into a single chassis beneath the vehicle. This design allows for a low center of gravity, maximizing interior space and enhancing stability.
A significant part of Rivian's growth and credibility comes from a major investment round led by Amazon, which also placed an order for 100,000 electric delivery vans. This partnership solidified Rivian's position as a serious player in the EV space. The company went public in November 2021 with one of the largest IPOs in U.S. history.
The table below compares key specifications of Rivian's current consumer vehicles:
| Model | Type | Estimated Range (EPA) | 0-60 mph Acceleration | Starting Price (approx.) |
|---|
| R1T | Pickup Truck | Up to 410 miles | ~3.0 seconds | $73,000 |
| R1S | SUV | Up to 400 miles | ~3.0 seconds | $78,000 |
| R1T (Dual-Motor) | Pickup Truck | Up to 350 miles | ~4.5 seconds | $69,000 |
| R1S (Dual-Motor) | SUV | Up to 340 miles | ~4.5 seconds | $74,000 |
While it operates independently, Rivian's success is closely watched as a benchmark for new EV manufacturers challenging established automakers.
