On Tuesday, Rivian Automotive raised its full-year production forecast by 2,000 vehicles, reaching a total of 54,000 units. This upward revision stems from the sustained demand for Rivian’s trucks and SUVs, and it resulted in a 4% boost in the company’s shares during after-hours trading, despite market volatility.
Positive sign amid industry Challenges
Rivian’s optimistic forecast is a glimmer of hope in an auto industry grappling with a double challenge: soaring inflation, which has tempered buyer enthusiasm, and price reductions at Tesla, the market leader, aimed at spurring demand. The industry has witnessed concerns expressed by top executives, including Tesla’s Elon Musk and leaders from General Motors and Ford, regarding the potential impact of high interest rates on car buyers and the threat of reduced demand.
Rival Lucid adjusts production forecast
In contrast to Rivian’s positive development, smaller competitor Lucid Motors reduced its production forecast. Lucid now anticipates producing 8,000 to 8,500 vehicles this year, down from its previous projection of over 10,000. This move was made to prudently align production with delivery capabilities, causing Lucid’s shares to dip by 4%.
Potential turnaround for Rivian
After several quarters of grappling with supply chain challenges, Rivian may be on the path to recovery, according to some analysts. The company has taken steps to trim capital expenses and losses for the year by engaging in negotiations with suppliers and implementing updates to components and systems.
Strategic assembly line updates
Rivian has planned a one-week production halt for this quarter to enhance its assembly line. However, an even more substantial shutdown is scheduled for next year. Scaringe indicated that this influenced the decision not to raise the annual production outlook further at this stage.
The Financial landscape
Rivian’s revenue for the third quarter stood at USD 1.34 billion, largely in line with Wall Street estimates, while its quarterly loss narrowed compared to the previous year. The company had USD 7.94 billion in cash as of the end of September, down from USD 9.26 billion three months prior.
Impact on electric vehicle pricing
Rivian and Lucid both position their vehicles in the high-end segment, with prices starting at over USD 70,000. This places them in a price range similar to Tesla’s Model S luxury sedan but significantly higher than Tesla’s more affordable models, priced around USD 38,000.
Rivian’s different approach
Unlike some competitors, Rivian has refrained from price reductions. Instead, the company has begun producing its Enduro powertrains in-house to reduce reliance on suppliers and lower costs. The company has reported stronger sales for its higher-priced SUVs compared to its R1T pickup truck, which has improved the average selling price of its vehicles.
Ending exclusivity with Amazon
Rivian announced that it would terminate its exclusivity agreement with its largest shareholder, Amazon, for electric delivery vans. This decision opens the door for more customers worldwide, although Rivian remains committed to fulfilling Amazon’s order for 100,000 vans by 2030. The company is currently in discussions with other customers interested in its Rivian Commercial Vehicle platform, which underpins its electric delivery vans, although specific names were not disclosed.
Lucid’s performance
Lucid’s quarterly losses have narrowed, but its revenue fell short of estimates, and production decreased by nearly 30% to 1,550 vehicles.
Rivian’s positive outlook and actions to adapt to industry challenges showcase its determination to thrive in the competitive EV market, making it a key player to watch in the coming months.