History of Rivian in Timeline

Rivian Automotive, founded in 2009, is an American electric vehicle manufacturer. It produces electric SUVs, pickup trucks (R1T), and delivery vans (EDV) using a versatile "skateboard" platform. Rivian began R1T deliveries in late 2021 and initially planned to establish an exclusive charging network across the US and Canada by the end of 2023. Rivian aims to compete in the EV market with innovative vehicle designs and technology.

July 2020: Tesla Sues Rivian for Stealing Information and Poaching Employees

In July 2020, Tesla initiated a lawsuit against Rivian, alleging the theft of proprietary information and the poaching of employees.

March 2021: Illinois Automobile Dealers Association Sues Rivian and Lucid Motors

In March 2021, the Illinois Automobile Dealers Association filed a lawsuit against Rivian and Lucid Motors concerning their plans to sell electric vehicles directly to consumers.

November 2021: Laura Schwab Sues Rivian Over Discrimination and Safety Concerns

In November 2021, Rivian's former sales and marketing vice president Laura Schwab filed a lawsuit against the company, claiming she was fired after raising concerns of discrimination and that Rivian was a "boys' club". Schwab also claimed she warned of underpriced vehicles and manufacturing process not conforming to security standards.

2024: Rivian Factory Cited for Safety Violations

According to Bloomberg in 2024, Rivian's only factory had more serious US safety violations than any other automaker since the start of the previous year.