How I Built This with Guy Raz Charging up the electric vehicle market with RJ Scaringe of Rivian
8 snips
Dec 28, 2023 
RJ Scaringe, Founder and CEO of Rivian, dives into the electrifying world of sustainable transportation. He discusses the overwhelming demand for Rivian's unique electric vehicles despite supply chain challenges. Scaringe outlines plans for a new mid-size SUV by 2026, while emphasizing accessible pricing and production efficiency. He also highlights Rivian's partnership with Amazon for delivering commercial vans and the adventurous spirit of their customer base, with a focus on promoting eco-friendly values in a rapidly expanding market.
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Early Production Challenges
- Rivian faced significant supply chain challenges during its initial production ramp-up, especially with the simultaneous launch of three vehicle models.
- RJ Scaringe spent countless hours working with supplier CEOs, struggling to secure parts due to Rivian's lack of established purchasing history.
EV Market Slowdown
- RJ Scaringe believes the current slowdown in the EV market is due to limited supply of compelling products and high interest rates.
- He emphasizes the need for more affordable, diverse EV options to drive broader adoption.
R2 Strategy
- Rivian's strategy with the R2 mirrors Tesla's approach of starting with premium vehicles and then introducing a more affordable option.
- The R2 aims to capture a wider market by offering the Rivian experience at a lower price point through cost optimization and simplified design.
