Rivian’s factory damaged by tornado amid crucial R2 EV launch
A view showing the second-generation R1S at electric car maker Rivian’s manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois, on June 21, 2024.
Joel Angel Juarez | Reuters
The hurricane damaged some of the Rivian Automotiveat its central Illinois plant over the weekend, according to a message sent to employees Sunday night by CEO RJ Scaringe and viewed by CNBC.
Scarigne said the tornado hit the facility. The space was being used for parts storage and logistics for Rivian’s upcoming R2, a crucial product for the company that is expected to go on sale this spring.
Scaringe said operations in the damaged area are expected to resume this week, while other major parts of the plant, such as assembly lines, are operating as planned. According to the company spokesperson, there were no injuries in the incident.
“While Building 2 sustained damage and is currently closed as we complete our assessments, I am incredibly relieved to share that there were no injuries at our facility,” Scaringe said in a message to employees. he said.
Scaringe said the company “will share more information as it becomes available, but for now our priority is to ensure our Normal conditions.” [Illinois] The team is safe and supported.”
Visible photos The incident was first reported and subsequently published online. TechCrunchThere was damage to the roof and at least one wall of the newly built building.
National Weather Service reported factory hit in the midst of a “significant tornado outbreak” It occurred in the Upper Midwest on Friday. Tornadoes confirmed near the plant Friday night were classified as EF1 and had estimated peak winds of 100 mph, according to the NWS.
