Plymouth-based Rivian announced an equity investment of $350 million from global automotive services company Cox Automotive as both companies explore partnership opportunities in service operations, logistics, and digital retailing.
“We are building a Rivian ownership experience that matches the care and consideration that go into our vehicles,” Rivian Founder and CEO RJ Scaringe said in a statement. “As part of this, we are excited to work with Cox Automotive in delivering a consistent customer experience across our various touchpoints. Cox Automotive’s global footprint, service and logistics capabilities, and retail technology platform make them a great partner for us.”
Cox Automotive, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Cox Enterprises, is the home of nearly 30 automotive brands, including Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, Pivet, RideKleen and Manheim, which transports, services and auctions vehicles across more than 150 global locations.
“We are excited by Rivian’s unique approach to building an electrified future and to be part of the positive impact its products will bring to our roads and the world around us,” Cox Automotive President Sandy Schwartz said in a statement. “This investment complements Cox Automotive’s own commitment to environmental change through our Cox Conserves efforts.”
Rivian has developed two clean sheet electric adventure vehicles, the R1T truck and the R1S SUV. Designed on a flexible skateboard platform, the R1T and R1S will each be available with up to 400 miles of range and an unmatched combination of off-road utility and high performance.
Cox Automotive Mobility Group President Joe George added: “With the electrification of vehicles set to play a significant role in the new mobility future, this partnership opens another channel of discovery and learning for Cox Automotive. Advancements in battery technology and the electrification of fleets are two of our primary focus areas, and we believe this relationship will prove to be mutually beneficial.”
This partnership marks Rivian’s third investment announcement of 2019, following a $700 million investment round in February led by Amazon, and in April, a $500 million investment from Ford Motor Co. Rivian will remain an independent company, and Cox Automotive will add a representative to Rivian’s board.
