Rivian executives have expressed their unwavering commitment to constructing a $5 billion manufacturing plant in Georgia.
On Friday, Richard Elliot from Channel 2 had the privilege of being the first to get a sneak peek at the three Rivian vehicles that will soon be manufactured right here in Georgia.
Three models of the vehicle, namely the R-2, the R-3, and the R-3x, are available.
Elliot engaged in discussions with the executives from Rivian at the expansive 2000-acre site to discuss their dedication to Georgia. This meeting took place just a month after the company’s announcement of temporarily halting their construction plans in Georgia, a decision that caused considerable unease among Georgia lawmakers.
Tony Sanger, Rivian’s Vice President of Production Facilities, assured Elliot that there was no need to worry.
Sanger emphasized our commitment to the governor, the state of Georgia, and its citizens, reassuring them that we will indeed return and construct the R-2’s and R-3’s right here in Georgia.
Gov. Brian Kemp and local officials from three counties went to great lengths to secure $1.5 billion in tax incentives for Rivian. This allowed the company to build on a mega-site located 60 miles east of Atlanta.
Just last month, Kemp was informed by Rivian that, despite the temporary pause, their commitment to the Peach State remains unwavering.
Kemp stated that they are being assured that everything is still on track and that the commitments made can still be met within the contractual obligations by 2030.
Rivian faced a significant setback last year, incurring a staggering $5 billion loss. In light of the overall decrease in electric vehicle (EV) sales, the company made the strategic decision to temporarily halt construction at its Georgia plant. Instead, Rivian shifted its focus towards manufacturing its R-2 vehicles at its established facility in Normal, Illinois.
Two years ago, Channel 2 Action News had the privilege of being given an exclusive tour of the plant.
Rivian claims that implementing this plan could result in savings of over $2 billion. They remain determined to resume construction once the R-2’s are operational and available in stores.
Sanger reassured that there is no need to worry if they are unable to pay back Georgia.
“We are aware of the deadlines set by the state of Georgia, and we are committed to meeting those deadlines. Rest assured, we will return well in advance to ensure that we meet all the necessary requirements,” reassured Sanger.
According to Sanger, the R-2s are specifically designed for the mass market, offering a more affordable price point. Their goal is to boost sales through this approach.
According to him, once they do, there could be a presence of 7,500 Rivian employees at the newly established Georgia plant.