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Rivian opens commercial van sales to all businesses
Rivian has opened sales of its commercial electric vans to all U.S. businesses, following the end of an exclusivity deal with Amazon. The company is offering two models, the 500 and 700 vans, targeting a new revenue stream after a year of trials with potential fleet customers. This move comes as Rivian aims to reduce losses ahead of launching a more affordable SUV in 2024.
Key points
- Rivian ends exclusivity with Amazon, allowing all U.S. businesses to purchase its vans.
- Two models available: smaller 500 and larger 700 vans.
- Commercial vans produced since 2021; significant initial order from Amazon (100,000 units).
- New sales strategy aims to establish a revenue stream following trials with fleet customers.
- Rivian has focused on building service and digital infrastructure for commercial fleets over the past year.
Why it matters
- Amazon's investment in Rivian underscores the growing importance of electric vehicles in reducing corporate carbon footprints.
- Rivian's transition to a broader market reflects a trend among EV manufacturers to diversify beyond exclusive partnerships.
- The push for commercial EVs coincides with sustainability goals and increased demand in the logistics sector, as evident in current IT trends towards green technology.
Rivian's decision to open commercial van sales marks a strategic shift that may bolster its financial stability while meeting the increasing demand for sustainable transportation solutions, reflecting broader trends in the EV market.