Rivian Vehicles, an American electric vehicle manufacturer, has successfully received certifications from three agencies, reaching the final step that permits the company to sell its R1T pickup truck and R1S SUVs across the U.S.
According to a statement by Rivian, its vehicles have been certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, California Air Resources Board, and the Environmental Protection Agency. The firm has also received regulatory approval to deliver the EVs to customers.
Certifications from the state and two federal agencies have led to a line of announcements by the company, such as the production of Rivian R1T electric pickup trucks in “Rivian blue” at the entity’s facility in Normal, Illinois.
Rivian’s two vehicles have also achieved official EPA ranges of 314 miles for its first model of all-electric R1T pickup truck and 316 miles for the R1T SUV.
Notably, the EV company has adopted a direct sales model wherein potential buyers can place an order for their vehicle online.
Dealer protection regulations in most of the U.S. states restrict companies like Rivian from establishing their stores, where customers can opt for test drives and learn regarding the various financing options. Although, there are no restrictions on customers ordering vehicles online from those states.
According to NRDC, nearly 22 states in the U.S. allow all vehicle manufacturers to sell their automobiles to customers. In these states, Rivian is allowed to set up showrooms, display vehicles, provide test drives, and also discuss various financing options.
Another 11 American states allow only Tesla, which also has a direct sales model to sell cars, in certain locations.
Founded in 2009, Rivian aims at delivering the R1T launch edition from September’21. While the delivery of R1 SUVs are expected to take place later in 2021.
Reports have it that Rivian is also confidentially filing paperwork with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to go public.
Source Credit: https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/14/rivian-vehicles-are-now-ready-for-sale-in-all-50-states-following-key-certifications/