Rivian announces a delay in the delivery of large-battery models until 2023.
Monday, January 3, 2022 | Chimniii Desk
Key Highlights
- Rivian has delayed deliveries of its largest battery-powered R1T and R1S models until 2023.
- The reason for this is that the majority of the approximately 71,000 pre-orders for the R1T and R1S in the United States and Canada have selected the medium battery option, which will receive priority.
- Approximately 20% of clients chose the larger battery option.
Advertisement
Rivian has delayed deliveries of its largest battery-powered R1T and R1S models until 2023. The reason for this is that the majority of the approximately 71,000 pre-orders for the R1T and R1S in the United States and Canada have selected the medium battery option, which will receive priority.
This was communicated in an email to customers by CEO RJ Scaringe. He stated that approximately 20% of clients chose the larger battery option. According to reports, this battery pack will have a capacity of 180 kWh, which should provide a range of more than 400 miles (644 kilometres).
Rivian initially provided just the 'Large' battery pack with 135 kWh and 300 miles (482 kilometres) of range for the 'Launch Edition' and the fully configurable 'Explore' and 'Adventure' trims. The mail does not indicate how many consumers chose the entry-level 105 kWh battery (230 miles or 370 kilometres), which is also not currently available.
However, the battery is not the only consideration; Scaringe reports that the "great majority" have configured a "Adventure package with a Large Pack battery." This combination is precisely what is to be built "as a priority" in 2022. Thus, even those who pre-order the less expensive 'Explore' package will have to wait until 2023.
Rivian began shipping the R1T in November 2021, following significant delays. The automobiles will be constructed in Mitsubishi's former Normal, Illinois plant. Meanwhile, the publicly traded corporation has opted to establish its second factory in the US state of Georgia. The proposed European plant's site has not yet been determined. At the moment, it appears as though a takeover of the current VDL NedCar facility is the most likely scenario.
Advertisement