Rivian Adjusts Production Shifts at Illinois Manufacturing Facility

Rivian, the electric vehicle startup, is making changes to its manufacturing operations in Normal, Illinois. The company has decided to reduce its shifts from three to two but remains confident in meeting its production targets.

Production Goals and Efficiency Improvements

Earlier this year, Rivian announced plans to build 57,000 vehicles in 2024, the same number it produced in 2023. Despite not increasing its output, the company has implemented efficiency enhancements at the factory, leading to the decision to eliminate the third shift.

Employee Transition and Job Security

Rivian’s corporate communications senior manager, Kelli Felki, assured that all hourly employees affected by the shift reduction will be offered positions on the remaining two shifts. With approximately 8,000 employees at the facility, most of whom are hourly manufacturing workers, job security and full-time positions will be maintained.

Shift Preferences and Operational Needs

Felki mentioned that Rivian considered employee feedback on shift patterns and preferences when assigning new shifts. The transition to two shifts will occur after a planned shutdown in April to implement cost-saving engineering design changes for R1 production.

Future Plans and New Model Unveiling

Rivian’s adjustment in production comes as the company introduced the new Rivian R2 model. Set to launch in 2026 with a starting price of $45,000 and a range of up to 330 miles (531 km), the R2 represents Rivian’s commitment to innovation and expansion in the electric vehicle market.