News Summary
Rivian has announced plans to recommence construction on its $5 billion electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Georgia, with a groundbreaking event set for September 2025. The facility will cover 16 million square feet and aim to produce Rivian’s R2 SUVs and R3 hatchbacks by 2028. Despite previous setbacks, including a significant financial loss, Rivian is committed to investing heavily in the project, creating jobs, and establishing a stronger presence in the electric vehicle market.
Social Circle, Georgia – Rivian, an electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced plans to recommence construction on its ambitious $5 billion manufacturing plant in Social Circle, Georgia, targeting a production start date in 2028. The company has scheduled a ceremonial groundbreaking event for September 2025, with actual construction projected to begin in early 2026.
The manufacturing facility will span an impressive 16 million square feet across an 1,800-acre campus and will be developed in two phases. Each phase will enhance production capacity by 200,000 vehicles, contributing to Rivian’s goal of increasing its electric vehicle output significantly. This strategic move comes after the company paused construction in 2023 following a substantial $5.4 billion loss, which raised concerns about its financial stability.
Rivian, which is based in Chicago, has selected Clayco as the contractor for this expansive facility. The engineering firm Jacobs will oversee technical aspects, while Skidmore, Owings & Merrill has been appointed as the design architect. These collaborations are expected to support Rivian in achieving its ambitious manufacturing objectives.
Initially announced by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp in 2021, the project faced delays that prompted Rivian to adapt its production strategy. Instead of utilizing the Georgia facility for an upcoming SUV model, Rivian shifted production to its existing plant in Normal, Illinois. In 2024, the company announced a $1.5 billion expansion of the Illinois facility to bolster its production capabilities.
As part of its renewed commitment to the Georgia project, Rivian has secured a loan agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy, which could extend up to $6.6 billion. Additionally, the state of Georgia has provided an incentive package worth $1.5 billion to support Rivian’s operations in the region.
Under an economic development agreement with Georgia, Rivian is obligated to invest at least $5 billion into the project and create 7,500 full-time jobs by the end of 2030. In further alignment with its strategic growth, Rivian is also establishing an East Coast headquarters in Atlanta, approximately 40 miles from the manufacturing site, which is scheduled to open in 2025.
As of mid-2025, Rivian has already committed over $80 million to the Georgia project and initiated hiring for various construction and management roles. Multiple job postings have been made in the area to support the development of the plant. Essential utility installations are currently underway at the site, along with plans to enhance engagements with suppliers to ensure a smooth supply chain for the upcoming manufacturing operations.
Despite the previous setbacks, Rivian continues to express strong commitment to establishing operations in Georgia, highlighting the state’s robust automotive supplier network as an invaluable resource. The company has been actively engaging in networking sessions with local state officials, demonstrating a focus on collaboration and partnership for the project’s future.
Originally, Rivian had projected that production at the Georgia facility would begin in 2024. However, the updated timeline now anticipates a 2028 launch, specifically focusing on the production of Rivian’s future R2 SUVs and R3 hatchbacks. As the company moves forward with its plans, industry observers will be watching closely to see how these developments will influence Rivian’s growth and market presence in the competitive electric vehicle sector.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Engineering News-Record
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Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
