American electric vehicle startup Rivian has finally secured the necessary government approval to commence the development of its new production factory in the state of Georgia.
Rivian to commence development at its new US plant
According to WSB-TV, the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Joint Development Authority of Jasper, Morgan, Newton, and Walton counties formally declared Thursday their final approval of Rivian’s electric vehicle factory proposal in Georgia.
This significant development essentially provides the American electric automaker long-term rights to establish its new domestic factory several years after the proposal announcement in 2021.
“It’s a great day in Georgia as we close and issue the bonds for the Rivian project. Renting the site to Rivian is the next step in delivering this generational opportunity, and Georgians in Jasper, Morgan, Newton, and Walton counties.”
JDA and GDECD
About the project
Rivian’s new manufacturing factory will rise near the I-20 corridor to Atlanta’s east, covering “just under 2,000 acres.” It marks the second local facility of the company after the existing Illinois factory that manufactures the R1T and R1S models, Teslarati noted.
Rivian plans to utilize the new Georgia factory for the production of its R2 next-gen electric vehicle platform. It is also expected to generate 7,500 job opportunities for the local citizens.
Rivian committed to allocate $5 billion for the construction of the new Georgia factory, including the development of the new access road. The company aims to launch the first batch of electric vehicle production by 2026, with plans to hit an annual production of approximately 400,000 units.
“Today’s action represents a significant milestone that has been achieved after years of thoughtful planning, hard work, and dedication by the JDA to bring life-changing opportunities to the people of this community. The JDA is thrilled to see this historic opportunity now become a tangible reality that will provide numerous benefits to our citizens for decades to come.”
JDA (via The Spokesman-Review)
Other EV-related plans
Apart from the upcoming factory in Georgia, Rivian also plans to expand its charging network in the area. It intends to install the planned charging stalls near key locations like shopping hubs, state parks, and the Ponce City Market showroom.
Rivian has also launched an apprenticeship program, enrolling local students in 24 months of electric vehicle-related training to support its Stanton Springs North facility. It is also worth noting that the Georgia HOPE Grants will offer tuition, with Rivian providing the other apprenticeship expenditures like learning materials.
Rivian’s new local manufacturing facility significantly boosts the US Government’s efforts to expand its domestic EV value chain to break away from Chinese suppliers. In return, it will also aid Rivian in increasing its production output. Rivian expects to commence the factory construction as early as next year.
