By Jake Fogal
BLOOMINGTON – Following a three week bracket challenge presented by the Illinois Manufacturer’s Association, Rivian’s all-electric R1T truck secured the win and title ‘Coolest Thing Made in Illinois.”
“Rivian is honored to have the R1T all-electric adventure vehicle chosen as IMA’s 2022 Coolest Thing Made in Illinois. Rivian’s mission to “Keep the World Adventurous Forever” is based on the premise that technology, innovation, and collaboration can address our planet’s greatest challenges, while also providing 21st Century jobs that support our community and all who live in and around the Bloomington-Normal area,” said James Chen, Vice President of Public Policy & Chief Regulatory Counsel for Rivian.
Manufactured in Normal, the R1T is the first all-electric truck in production, featuring four motors, with one powering each wheel. It also boasts eight driving modes and up to 400 miles of range.
Voter’s chose from a field that featured 400 initial entries, that eventually narrowed down into a bracket of 16 finalists.
“Rivian R1T is an outstanding example of the innovation and ingenuity of our state’s manufacturing sector and has rightfully earned the title of The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois. The R1T is leading a revolution in the automotive industry, and we are proud Illinois is home to such exciting technological advancements,” said Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association.
“While the R1T emerged victorious this year, we are proud of every product featured in the competition, as they helped showcase the dynamic nature of our state’s manufacturing sector and the strength of the men and women who work on our factory floors.”
Other products presented in the top four featured Fruit by the Foot by General Mills, Orion Spacecraft Capsule’s Aft Bulkhead Barrel and Tunnel by Ingersoil Machine Tools, Inc., and Custom Blazed Diffraction Gratings by Inprentus Precision Optics.
Jake Fogal can be reached at [email protected].
