Vans: Mercedes-Benz and Rivian join forces
Rivian already produces commercial vans for Amazon, while Mercedes Benz manufactures the e-Sprinter. Despite this expertise, the two manufacturers have decided to join forces for the design and manufacture of a new range of electric vans in Europe.
A new chapter is being written in the world of electric vans with the announcement of an agreement in principle between the commercial van division of Mercedes-Benz and the emerging American company Rivian. The objective behind this announcement is to create a new line of commercial vans using the capabilities and abilities of both companies to craft two new products.
Although the Sprinter is partly manufactured in the United States, for the time being, the manufacture of these vans will be carried out in Europe and reserved for the European market. Mercedes-Benz will therefore convert one of its facilities in Eastern Europe for these vans, while it is assumed that Rivian will make a great contribution in technical matters, in particular the components of the electric motorization. Coming from the factory, we will see Mercedes-Benz and Rivian products.
Two ranges of products will eventually be assembled there. Although details are still very limited, Mercedes-Benz’s VAN.EA business platform will be on the assembly line just like the Rivian Light Van platform. The two foundations can follow each other on the assembly line. The two companies don’t mention the size of the vans at this time, but it’s speculated that Mercedes-Benz will take an approach on the heels of the hulking Sprinter. One thing is certain, there is a notion of economies of scale in this adventure; we seek to reduce production costs and technically allow greater accessibility.
In this electrification-oriented world, Mathias Geisen, head of the van division of Mercedes-Benz, speaks about this initiative: “From 2025, all vans produced on the VAN.EA platform will be electric. I am happy that this transformation is being done in partnership with Rivian, a highly dynamic and inspiring manufacturer with a strong technological position. »
Good words also come from RJ Scaringe, from Rivian, towards Mercedes-Benz: “We are happy about this partnership with Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz is one of the best and most respected automobile manufacturers in the world. We believe that together we will produce truly remarkable electric vans that will benefit our customers but also the planet. »
Conclusion
Although the two manufacturers do not advance further, they leave the door open to other initiatives in the future. This is just a starting point. We can therefore afford to believe that Mercedes-Benz and Rivian will expand their collaboration on the North American market. In both cases, we see an interesting commercial solution since both companies have facilities for the manufacture of vans. If we go further, Rivian could well produce its vans in the Mercedes-Benz plant in South Carolina. In this way, Rivian could free up space to increase production of the R1T and R1S.
