Rivian, the electric vehicle maker that plans a $5 billion factory east of Atlanta, says it will soon reveal the model it will make in Georgia.
In posts on social media, Rivian said it will reveal the new crossover EV next month. The R2 is a critical vehicle for Rivian as it seeks to broaden its product line to more mass market consumers. Midsized and compact crossovers are some of the most popular vehicles in the U.S.
“This is it. Get ready to meet R2 on March 7th,” Rivian posted on social media.
The site along I-20 in southern Walton and Morgan counties has undergone grading for some time, and the California-based startup is expected to begin vertical construction early this year. The state Department of Transportation is also working on several related road construction projects, including a new freeway interchange.
Rivian announced plans for the factory in late 2021, with an original opening date planned for this year. But the opening has since been pushed back to 2026. The company was wooed to Georgia with a $1.5 billion package of incentives, including tax breaks, free land, worker training and other inducements from state and local officials. In return, Rivian has promised to hire 7,500 employees.