Rivian's Georgia EV Plant Prepares for Construction with New Plant Manager

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【Summary】EV startup Rivian has hired Arnhelm Mittelbach as its first Georgia plant manager, as it prepares to begin construction on its second manufacturing plant in Georgia. The new plant will produce the next-gen R2 lineup, which will be cheaper than Rivian's current models. The R2 lineup is expected to start at around $40,000 to $45,000 and will be unveiled next year.

FutureCar Staff Nov 03, 2023 9:28 AM PT

Rivian's Georgia EV Plant Prepares for Construction with New Plant Manager

EV startup Rivian has announced the appointment of Arnhelm Mittelbach as the first plant manager for its Georgia facility. Mittelbach brings over 20 years of experience from Mercedes-Benz as Rivian prepares to begin construction on its second manufacturing plant in Georgia early next year.

The new plant in Georgia will be the home of Rivian's next-generation R2 products. These products are expected to be cheaper than the company's current electric models, as Rivian aims to expand its market. The current R1T electric truck and R1S both have starting prices of over $70,000, while the R2 lineup, set to be unveiled next year, will start at around $40,000 to $45,000.

Rivian plans to start the first production phase of the Georgia plant next year, with an estimated annual capacity of around 200,000 units once completed. The company also has plans for a second phase, which would increase the annual EV capacity to up to 400,000 units by the end of the decade.

The R2 lineup will have a different vehicle architecture compared to the R1 series, but Rivian emphasizes that it will still be distinctly a Rivian vehicle. The company aims to simplify manufacturing with the R2 lineup by incorporating the lessons learned from ramping up production of the R1 series.

On November 1, Mittelbach officially started his role as the Georgia plant manager for Rivian. He will report directly to COO Frank Klein. Mittelbach's extensive experience with Mercedes-Benz includes serving as plant manager in East London, South Africa, and president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Vans in Charleston, SC. He has also held various manufacturing roles in Germany.

Rivian's COO, Frank Klein, expressed his excitement over the hiring of Mittelbach, praising his experience in ramping up new factories and launching new products. Rivian has also launched an apprenticeship program to develop a skilled workforce for its future site in Stanton Springs North, Georgia. The company plans to employ approximately 7,500 people at the site by 2030.

In another achievement, Rivian's Normal, Illinois, plant has reached a significant milestone by charging every new electric vehicle with 100% clean energy. Customers can expect to receive cars that have had their first charge entirely from wind and solar energy.