RIVN - Rivian

    

Modern automotive with Yesterday design

    After the Y2K, Car design trend to be rounder and more aero dynamics as an oppose of 60s - 80s that is boxy style. But here in 20s these kinds of design are oversaturated and boring. Every manufacturer having their blob crossover/SUV especially electric vehicle (EV) that aim for more range, futuristic and minimalism. But Rivian brings the differ, Introducing SUV, Truck and Crossovers but Boxy and Retro!

    It might sound indifferent, but consider that in EV market, there is not many boxy and retro design car to choose from. The Tesla and Mercedes choose Minimalist and futuristic approach. While BMW and US's big three choose more conservation approach. But at Rivian, they are bringing up boxy nostalgia approach. However, unique design alone could not make them shine in the market. So, let get to know more about this new electric car brand that need to fight with both old and new behemoths in automotive market.

    

About Rivian

    Founding in 2009 as Mainstream Motors by Robert "RJ" Scaringe in Florida. Then they are changing to another name include "Avera Automotive" and "Avera Motors" and setting on "Rivian Automotive" in 2011.

    Similar to Tesla, at first, they focus on fun mid-engine hybrid sport car called the R1. Unfortunately, the project was not success and shelved in 2011. Pushing them to re-evaluate their business strategy. 

    In 2015, They received significant investment and expanded operations with research facilities in Michigan and California. focusing EV and unman operate vehicle, Targeting public transport. 

    In 2017, They revealed R1T Pickup truck and R1S SUV. and unveiled in 2018 at LA Auto Show.

    During 2018 to 2021, They are facing rapid employee growth from 250 to 9000. Begin first automaker who deliver an electric pickup truck to consumers in September and in November they success fully IPO in November with high initial stock valuation.

    However, Life isn't a bed of roses. They encounter initial production and delivery delays due to supply chain issues. Announced price increases in March 2022, leading to customer backlash and subsequent apologies. Reduced workforce by 6% in July 2022 due to economic factors and more 10% of salaried workers in February 2024.

Rivian's trucks

    Opposing of what was intended at first, Rivian successful product is SUVs and Pick Up trucks. Similar to Ford F150s and Chevy Tahoe. Rivian's truck design for Off Road Capability and Performance but being EV.  Rivian line up include:

    

R1T pickup truck.

        3 tons monster with four electric motors installed on each two axles.. With various interior features include four electrical outlets, interior display size is 30cm for the driver's plus a 38 cm combined display for infotainment, navigation, climate etc. Storage space underneath the cargo bed, front trunk and 1.4m cargo bed (3,450 mm wheelbase). Winning Truck of the Year by Motor Trend in December 2021.

   

R1S SUVs.

        It capable of R1T capability, building on a "skateboard" platform for versatility and sharing components with the R1T. Basically, R1T with 7 seaters and having shorter wheelbase (3,080 mm) suitable for grocery getter at mall and city driving.

   

Electric Delivery Van (EDV)

         Electric Van collab with Amazon, Shares key components with the R1T/R1S. Exclusive production for Amazon initially, but exclusivity ended in 2023.

R2 and R3 SUVs 

that would be compact more affordable SUV coming in near future.

Author's note

    In summary, Rivian brand is relatively new to automotive market, even for EV . They would having a hard time considering that their main advantage is just unique design and need to fight with Tesla's technology and older manufacturers' service and infrastructures. 

Ref.

https://rivian.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rivian