How I Built This with Guy Raz

Charging up the electric vehicle market with RJ Scaringe of Rivian

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.

35:40

Episode guests

RJ Scaringe

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Highlights

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Rivian has faced supply chain challenges and production delays due to launching multiple products, but is actively working with suppliers to ensure a steady flow of components.

Rivian believes in the importance of competition and multiple successful car companies in driving innovation and expanding EV adoption, and aims to offer products that stand out and strike a chord with consumers.

Deep dives

Rivian's Challenges and Expansion Plans

Rivian, the popular electric vehicle company, is facing challenges as it deals with a backlog of orders and a complex supply chain. The company launched three different products in a short time, which led to difficulties in managing the supply chain and caused production delays. The CEO, RJ Scoringe, acknowledges the challenges and has been actively working with suppliers to ensure a steady flow of components. Despite the setbacks, Rivian has a strong customer base with high demand and satisfaction. The company plans to expand its product line and launch a mid-sized, lower-priced vehicle, the R2, in 2026.

Transition from Engineering to Public Markets and Product Development

00:23

Challenges of Managing a Complex Supply Chain

00:20

Intro

3min

Navigating Electric Vehicle Expansion Challenges

8min

Strategic Expansion in the Electric Vehicle Market

4min

Rivian's Dual Strategy: Vehicles and Vans

12min

Exploring the Diverse and Adventurous Customer Base of Rivian

6min

Navigating the EV Landscape

6min

Innovating Communication on the Road

3min

Rivian’s all-electric vehicles have been in high demand thanks to their unique look and handy features. But soon after hitting the market, a series of supply chain snarls led to a backlog of orders and a retreat by key investors. Undeterred, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe has focused on ramping up production and has big plans for the company’s future — including the release of a new mid-size SUV in 2026.

This week on How I Built This Lab, how Rivian continues to shape the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. Plus, Rivian’s plans to expand charging infrastructure across the U.S. and RJ’s strategies for leading through challenging times.

And don’t forget to check out Rivian’s origin story from September 2022.

This episode was produced by Katherine Sypher with music by Ramtin Arablouei.

It was edited by John Isabella with research by Katherine Sypher. Our audio engineer was Neal Rauch.

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How I Built This with Guy Raz

Charging up the electric vehicle market with RJ Scaringe of Rivian

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Rivian's Challenges and Expansion Plans

The Electric Vehicle Market and Competition

Building Resilience and Overcoming Challenges

The Road to Profitability and Cost Reduction

Transition from Engineering to Public Markets and Product Development

Challenges of Managing a Complex Supply Chain

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts