Rivian created a secret pool of batteries from Asian manufacturers to circumvent Trump's tariffs - media outlet
Bloomberg reported, citing insiders, that even before the 2024 presidential election, California-based startup Rivian purchased a large batch of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries from China's Gotion High-Tech Co. This helped create a stockpile of energy storage devices even before the U.S. began its chaotic imposition of tariffs (duties) on other countries.
Here's What We Know
LFP batteries are installed in Rivian Commercial Van (RCV) vans, as well as base versions of the R1S crossover and R1T pickup truck. Rivian paid upfront for shipping and placed the order directly, while Gotion took responsibility for warehousing and stock maintenance in the US.
In parallel, Rivian has increased its purchase of Samsung SDI lithium-ion NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) batteries from South Korea. These batteries are designed for the high-powered versions of the R1S and R1T.
In 2026, when production of the new R2 crossover starts in the US Normal, Illinois, the supply problem should go away. Rivian has partnered with LG Energy Solution to manufacture in the US new cylindrical cells capable of storing six times more energy than the current ones.
According to Cox Automotive, Rivian sold a record 51,579 units of the R1S, R1T and RCV last year. Of that number, about 13,000 units were electric vans.
Source: Bloomberg
