AT and T Teams Up with Rivian: In a strategic move towards a more sustainable future, U.S. wireless carrier AT&T is set to purchase electric vehicles (EVs) from Rivian in a pioneering pilot program. The collaboration aims to explore ways to reduce costs, lower carbon emissions, and enhance safety in the company’s commercial fleet.
This groundbreaking deal marks Rivian’s first venture post-exclusivity with Amazon for its delivery vans, signaling a new era for potential customers. AT&T plans to integrate Rivian’s electric commercial vans, R1T pickup trucks, and R1S sport utility vehicles into its fleet starting early 2024.
While the specific number of vehicles and financial terms remain undisclosed, this initiative aligns with AT&T’s longstanding commitment to transforming its commercial fleet by incorporating alternative fuel vehicles. The telecom giant has been at the forefront of adopting eco-friendly solutions such as compressed natural gas and hybrid electric vehicles.
Hardmon Williams, Senior Vice President of AT&T Connected Solutions, emphasized the pilot’s significance, stating, “This pilot is another important step in our ongoing efforts toward sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint and embracing a cleaner future for our operations.”
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The move comes amidst a broader trend where companies are increasingly focusing on Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) goals and emission reduction targets. The race to transition to zero-emission fleets has gained momentum, driven by the collective responsibility to address climate concerns.
Rivian, based in Irvine, California, has previously expressed optimism regarding the demand for its electric vans beyond Amazon. Despite the challenges posed by higher interest rates affecting the EV market, the company remains committed to delivering on its order for 100,000 vans to Amazon by 2030. Amazon, confirming its commitment, stated it already has 10,000 Rivian vehicles in operation across the U.S. and Europe.
Rivian’s recent production forecast increase to 54,000 units for 2023 underscores its dedication to meet growing demand. As the automotive landscape evolves, partnerships like the one between AT&T and Rivian showcase a shared vision for a sustainable and eco-conscious future in the commercial vehicle sector.
Our Reader’s Queries
Is Rivian owned by Ford?
Ford has decided to hold onto a 12% stake in Rivian, a company that recently hit a valuation of over $10 billion following its IPO. In 2022, Ford sold approximately 90% of its stake in Rivian for $3 billion, which is a significant increase from its initial investment of $1.2 billion.
Is Rivian moving to Georgia?
Rivian, the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer, has selected Clayco to build a massive $5 billion manufacturing campus spanning 1,800 acres in Stanton Springs, Georgia. The facility is expected to commence production in 2026.
Who owns Rivian truck company?
RJ Scaringe, the mastermind behind Rivian Automotive, has successfully listed the company’s shares on Nasdaq in November 2021. Scaringe’s vision to create robust, lavish, and electric vehicles led him to establish the car company that eventually became Rivian Automotive in 2009. With his exceptional leadership, the company has become a prominent player in the electric car industry.
What is the meaning of the name Rivian?
Rivian’s name has an interesting backstory. Initially, the company was called Avera Automotive, but that name was quickly changed. After abandoning the alliteration approach, the team finally settled on Rivian. The name is derived from the Indian River, where the company’s founder, Scaringe, spent a lot of time exploring on his rowboat during his youth in Florida.