Rivian Delays R1T and R1S Deliveries

Rivian has announced a further postponement of deliveries for its highly anticipated R1T electric pickup truck and R1S SUV. This delay, communicated to customers via a letter from CEO RJ Scaringe, stems from production challenges linked to the continuing global effects of the pandemic.

Specifically, the ongoing worldwide semiconductor chip shortage is significantly impacting the manufacturing process. Initial R1T deliveries are now slated to commence in September, with the R1S following closely after.

Launch Edition Delays

The initial delivery timeframe for the R1T Launch Edition vehicles – a limited release representing the company’s first series of “electric adventure vehicles” – had already been pushed back by one month, with a previous target of July. This represents a second delay for these early adopters.

Industry-Wide Chip Shortage

Rivian is not alone in facing these difficulties. The global chip shortage is affecting numerous established automakers, including GM, Ford, and Toyota.

Many manufacturers have been forced to either reduce production volumes or omit certain features reliant on these essential components. As an example, GM is currently producing select mid- and full-sized SUVs without integrated wireless phone charging capabilities.

A New Entrant in a Competitive Market

Unlike its more established competitors with substantial existing revenue streams, Rivian is a relatively new company striving to be the first to market with an electric pickup truck.

Ford intends to launch the electric F-150 Lightning pickup in spring 2022. Furthermore, production of the GMC Hummer EV pickup is anticipated to begin later in the current year.

Details from Scaringe’s Letter

The letter, reviewed by TechCrunch, provided updates on the company’s progress.

Rivian now employs over 7,000 individuals. The manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois, features two distinct production lines. One line is dedicated to the R1 vehicles, while the other focuses on the production of commercial vans.

Amazon Delivery Van Partnership

In 2019, Rivian revealed its development of an electric delivery van for Amazon, utilizing its innovative “skateboard” platform. Amazon placed an order for 100,000 of these vans, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2021.

Earlier this year, Amazon initiated testing of the electric delivery van in major metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Focus on Quality and Communication

Scaringe emphasized that Rivian has constructed “hundreds of vehicles” as part of its validation procedures, many of which have been observed undergoing testing with distinctive vinyl wraps.

He explained that the company prioritizes ensuring the quality and reliability of its initial products, believing this is “critical to both our long-term success and your ultimate satisfaction.”

The CEO also acknowledged the need for improved transparency and more precise communication regarding delivery timelines.