Rivian Hires Former Mercedes-Benz Executive In Preparation For Georgia Plant Launch

EV startup Rivian RIVN on Thursday revealed that Arnhelm Mittelbach has joined as the first manager of its upcoming Georgia plant.

According to an Electrek report, Mittelbach, a former Mercedes-Benz executive, brings over two decades of experience to Rivian.

The new plant, set to commence construction early next year, will house Rivian’s next-gen R2 products. These offerings will be priced more affordably than the current R1T electric truck and R1S models, which start at over $70,000.

Rivian’s CEO, RJ Scaringe, previously stated in June that the R2 lineup would have a starting price of around $40,000 to $45,000. The unveiling of the R2 lineup is expected next year.

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The first production phase of the new plant is also slated to begin next year, with an estimated annual capacity of 200,000 once it’s fully operational. Rivian intends to ramp up to a 400,000 annual EV capacity by the end of the decade.

Mittelbach started his role as Georgia plant manager on November 1, reporting directly to COO Frank Klein. His previous roles included plant manager at Mercedes-Benz in East London, South Africa, and president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Vans in Charleston, SC.

Rivian also recently launched an apprenticeship program to support staff development at its future site in Stanton Springs North, Georgia. The company plans to employ around 7,500 people at the site by 2030.

On another note, Rivian’s Normal, Illinois plant has begun charging every new electric vehicle with 100% clean energy, marking another significant achievement for the EV maker.

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