Rivian expansion plans win council approval

Posted on July 21, 2020
Rivian said it will employ 1,000 workers at full production. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

NORMAL – The Normal Town Council is backing Rivian’s plans to expand its factory even before it starts making electric vehicles on the west side of town.

The council Monday night approved Rivan’s amended site plans, which include an additional 576,000 square feet of space, on top of the 2.6 million square feet that already exists at the former Mitsubishi Motors plant.

The largest of the four building additions would expand the southeast portion of the plant by another 262,000 square feet.

It was noted during the council meeting that Rivian is not asking for more tax incentives to build the additions.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced Rivian to delay production until next year of its electric-powered sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks.

Also, Amazon has contracted with Rivian to make 100,000 electric delivery vans.

Rivian said it will employ 1,000 workers at full production.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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