Rivian Automotive, Inc., founded in 2009 by R.J. Scaringe, is an American electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer known for its innovative electric trucks and SUVs. Understanding who owns Rivian provides insight into the company’s strategic partnerships and market positioning.
Rivian History
Rivian began as Mainstream Motors in 2009, rebranding to Rivian in 2011. The company focused on developing electric adventure vehicles, leading to the launch of the R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV. In 2021, Rivian went public, raising significant capital to support its growth and production plans.
Early Beginnings (2009–2011)
Rivian was founded in 2009 by Robert “R.J.” Scaringe under the name Mainstream Motors. The company aimed to develop fuel-efficient vehicles but soon shifted its focus to electric vehicles. In 2011, it rebranded as Rivian, inspired by Florida’s Indian River Lagoon, where Scaringe spent his childhood.
Development Phase (2011–2018)
Between 2011 and 2018, Rivian operated in stealth mode, focusing on research and development. The company built an engineering facility in Michigan and acquired a former Mitsubishi plant in Normal, Illinois, in 2017. This facility became Rivian’s primary manufacturing site. During this period, Rivian focused on creating a unique “adventure vehicle” concept rather than competing directly with Tesla’s sedans.
Product Launch and Public Attention (2018–2021)
At the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, Rivian unveiled its first two vehicles: the R1T electric pickup truck and the R1S electric SUV. The event marked the company’s emergence as a serious player in the electric vehicle market. Rivian secured significant investments from Amazon and Ford in 2019, boosting its production capabilities.
IPO and Market Expansion (2021–Present)
In November 2021, Rivian went public on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol RIVN. The IPO raised nearly $12 billion, making it one of the largest in U.S. history. Despite initial enthusiasm, Rivian faced production challenges due to supply chain constraints. The company continued to expand its product lineup, including electric delivery vans for Amazon and remains focused on scaling production and innovation.
Who Owns Rivian?
Rivian’s ownership structure comprises institutional investors, corporate partners, and individual shareholders. The largest shareholder is Amazon, holding approximately 14.1% of the company’s shares.
Below is a detailed overview of its key shareholders:
| Shareholder | Ownership Percentage | Role in Rivian |
|---|
| Amazon.com, Inc. | 17.2% | Strategic partner and customer, ordered 100,000 electric delivery vans |
| Global Oryx Group Holding | 12.4% | Institutional investor with long-term interest in EV growth |
| Volkswagen Group | 16% | Strategic partner for EV technology collaboration |
| Ford Motor Company | 1.6% | Early investor, previously collaborated on EV development |
| T. Rowe Price Associates | 5.72% | Institutional investor |
| BlackRock Inc. | 4.86% | Institutional investor |
| The Vanguard Group | 4% | Institutional investor |
| Capital Research Global | 3.9% | Institutional investor |
| Baillie Gifford & Co. | 3.38% | Institutional investor |
| Robert J. Scaringe (CEO) | 0.49% | Founder, CEO, and decision-maker in company strategy |
Amazon.com, Inc. (17.2%)
Amazon is Rivian’s largest shareholder, holding approximately 17.2% of the company’s shares. The e-commerce giant has played a crucial role in Rivian’s growth by placing an order for 100,000 electric delivery vans as part of its commitment to sustainable logistics.
This order provided Rivian with a steady demand for its commercial vehicles and helped it secure a strong position in the electric vehicle (EV) market.
Amazon’s investment in Rivian is both strategic and financial. The company aims to integrate Rivian’s EVs into its global delivery network, reducing its carbon footprint. While Amazon does not directly control Rivian, its stake and partnership grant it influence over the company’s direction, particularly regarding commercial vehicle production.
Global Oryx Group Holding Co. Ltd. (12.4%)
Global Oryx is an investment company owned by Saudi Arabia’s Jameel family. It holds about 12.4% of Rivian’s shares, making it one of the largest institutional investors. The Jameel family has a strong history of investing in the automotive industry and renewable energy. Their investment in Rivian reflects confidence in the company’s long-term potential in the EV sector.
Unlike Amazon, Global Oryx is not a strategic partner but rather a financial investor seeking growth in the emerging EV industry. The firm’s investment helps Rivian maintain liquidity and expand production capabilities.
Volkswagen Group (16%)
Volkswagen invested in Rivian to strengthen its position in the EV market. Holding approximately 16% of Rivian’s shares, Volkswagen sees the company as an important ally in electric vehicle development.
The partnership allows Volkswagen to share technology, improve EV production efficiency, and compete against Tesla and other major EV players.
Volkswagen’s investment is particularly significant given its plans to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles. By collaborating with Rivian, Volkswagen aims to accelerate innovation in battery technology and vehicle design. This relationship could lead to joint projects or technology-sharing agreements in the future.
Ford Motor Company (1.6%)
Ford was one of Rivian’s earliest investors, committing $500 million in 2019. Initially, Ford and Rivian planned to collaborate on an electric vehicle, but these plans were later canceled as Ford focused on its own EV development, including the Ford F-150 Lightning.
Ford reduced its stake in Rivian and currently holds around 1.6% of the company’s shares.
Despite selling off a significant portion of its investment, Ford’s involvement in Rivian helped the startup gain credibility in the auto industry.
Rivian benefited from Ford’s expertise and early financial backing, which enabled it to scale production and improve its manufacturing capabilities.
T. Rowe Price Associates Inc. (5.72%)
T. Rowe Price is a well-known asset management firm and one of Rivian’s major institutional investors. Holding around 5.72% of Rivian’s shares, the firm sees Rivian as a high-growth opportunity in the EV sector.
As a long-term investor, T. Rowe Price supports Rivian through capital investment rather than strategic partnerships. The firm’s investment helps provide stability and financial resources, allowing Rivian to expand its production capacity and develop new models.
BlackRock Inc. (4.86%)
BlackRock is one of the largest asset management firms in the world, and it holds approximately 4.86% of Rivian’s shares. Its investment signals strong institutional confidence in Rivian’s future growth and sustainability initiatives.
BlackRock has been increasing its investments in renewable energy and electric vehicle companies as part of its commitment to sustainable investing.
It does not directly influence Rivian’s operations, its financial backing supports the company’s expansion efforts and stock market stability.
The Vanguard Group (4%)
Vanguard is another major institutional investor, holding around 4% of Rivian’s shares. The firm manages large investment portfolios and focuses on long-term growth opportunities. Its stake in Rivian reflects confidence in the company’s potential to become a major player in the EV industry.
Vanguard’s investment provides Rivian with additional financial stability, especially as it works to scale production and compete with established automakers.
Capital Research Global Investors (3.9%)
Capital Research Global Investors is a significant stakeholder in Rivian, owning approximately 3.9% of the company’s shares. The firm specializes in managing large investment funds and seeks high-growth opportunities.
Like other institutional investors, Capital Research Global Investors sees Rivian as a key player in the electric vehicle industry. Its investment provides Rivian with financial support while offering long-term returns for its clients.
Baillie Gifford & Co. (3.38%)
Baillie Gifford is a Scottish investment management firm with a history of investing in high-growth technology companies. Holding around 3.38% of Rivian’s shares, the firm believes in Rivian’s long-term potential as a leader in sustainable transportation.
Baillie Gifford was also an early investor in Tesla, which suggests it has experience identifying promising EV companies. Its investment in Rivian provides the automaker with additional capital to expand production and develop new technology.
Robert J. Scaringe (0.49%)
Rivian’s founder and CEO, Robert “R.J.” Scaringe, owns approximately 0.49% of the company’s shares. While this stake is relatively small compared to institutional investors, his leadership plays a crucial role in Rivian’s direction.
As CEO, Scaringe is responsible for Rivian’s product development, strategic partnerships, and long-term vision. He remains committed to building an innovative and sustainable EV company, focusing on adventure vehicles and fleet electrification.
Who Controls Rivian?
Rivian Automotive, Inc. is controlled by a combination of its board of directors, executive leadership team, and major shareholders. While the company operates as an independent public entity, certain investors and executives influence strategic decisions, corporate governance, and business operations.
Executive Leadership: The Driving Force
At the core of Rivian’s control structure is its executive team, led by Robert “R.J.” Scaringe, the company’s founder and CEO.
Robert J. Scaringe (Founder & CEO)
Scaringe founded Rivian in 2009 and remains the key decision-maker. Though he owns only 0.49% of the company’s shares, his leadership is crucial in defining Rivian’s vision, strategy, and product development. He oversees daily operations, partnerships, and technological advancements.
His influence extends beyond his shareholding because institutional investors and partners trust his leadership. As a result, he plays a major role in company decisions, including manufacturing expansion, vehicle launches, and sustainability efforts.
Other Key Executives
- Claire McDonough (Chief Financial Officer) – Manages Rivian’s finances, including investments, funding, and public market performance.
- Frank Klein (Chief Operations Officer) – Oversees production, supply chain, and logistics, ensuring vehicle deliveries.
- Nick Kalayjian (Chief Product Development Officer) – Leads the engineering team in vehicle design and innovation.
- Matt Horton (Chief Commercial Officer) – Develops sales, marketing, and commercial strategies, including Rivian’s fleet business.
Board of Directors: Overseeing Strategic Decisions
Rivian’s board of directors ensures corporate governance and represents shareholders’ interests. The board includes industry experts, executives from major investing firms, and independent directors who oversee the company’s long-term direction.
Key Board Members
- Robert J. Scaringe (Chairman & CEO) – Provides leadership and strategic direction.
- Jay Flatley (Lead Independent Director) – Former CEO of Illumina, ensuring corporate oversight.
- Karen Boone (Director) – Former RH (Restoration Hardware) executive, contributing financial expertise.
- Peter Krawiec (Director, Amazon Representative) – Amazon’s Senior Vice President of Global Corporate Development, ensuring Amazon’s interests in Rivian.
- Pamela Thomas-Graham (Director) – Experienced financial executive, supporting governance.
- Rose Marcario (Director) – Former CEO of Patagonia, advising on sustainability.
Since Amazon holds 17.2% of Rivian, it has a significant influence on the board through Peter Krawiec, its representative. Other large shareholders, like T. Rowe Price and Vanguard, also have indirect influence but do not hold board seats.
Major Shareholders: Indirect Influence
While Rivian operates as an independent company, major shareholders influence decisions through their voting power in shareholder meetings. Institutional investors such as Amazon, Volkswagen, BlackRock, and T. Rowe Price provide financial backing but do not directly control daily operations.
However, Amazon’s stake (17.2%) and large delivery van order give it strategic leverage. Volkswagen’s 16% stake could also play a growing role in shaping Rivian’s future, particularly in technology-sharing agreements.
Who Ultimately Controls Rivian?
- CEO Robert Scaringe controls the company’s strategy and product development.
- The executive team manages daily operations, financial decisions, and production.
- The board of directors provides governance and represents shareholder interests.
- Amazon and other major shareholders have indirect control by influencing key business decisions through their investments and voting power.
Who Makes Rivian Vehicles?
Rivian manufactures its electric vehicles at its primary production facility in Normal, Illinois. The plant, originally a Mitsubishi Motors factory, was acquired by Rivian in 2017 for $16 million and has since been upgraded to support large-scale EV production.
Rivian’s Manufacturing Facility in Normal, Illinois
- Located in Normal, Illinois, this is Rivian’s first and largest factory.
- Spanning 3.3 million square feet, it has the capacity to produce 150,000 vehicles per year, with plans to expand to 200,000+ units.
- Produces Rivian’s flagship vehicles:
- R1T (electric pickup truck)
- R1S (electric SUV)
- Electric delivery vans (EDVs) for Amazon
The factory integrates advanced automation, robotics, and sustainable production methods to minimize environmental impact. Rivian also sources components like batteries and motors from third-party suppliers but develops key technologies in-house.
Planned Manufacturing Expansion: Rivian’s Georgia Plant
To meet growing demand, Rivian is building a new manufacturing plant in Stanton Springs, Georgia. This facility, announced in 2021, represents a $5 billion investment and is expected to:
- Covers 2,000 acres and employs over 7,500 workers.
- Have a production capacity of 400,000 vehicles per year.
- Begin production in 2026 to support Rivian’s future models, including the R2 and R3 series.
Who Builds Rivian Vehicles?
Rivian employs thousands of engineers, technicians, and factory workers at its Normal facility. These employees work across vehicle assembly, battery pack manufacturing, quality control, and testing. The company also collaborates with suppliers for raw materials, including:
- Samsung SDI (battery cells).
- Magna International (chassis and components).
- Robert Bosch GmbH (electronics and braking systems).
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of Rivian
As of March 2025, Rivian’s trailing twelve months (TTM) revenue is approximately $4.97 billion. In the fourth quarter of 2024, Rivian reported a gross profit of $170 million, marking its first positive gross profit, primarily driven by improvements in variable costs and revenue per delivered unit. Despite this achievement, the company recorded a net loss of approximately $4.7 billion for the full year of 2024, an improvement from the $5.7 billion net loss in 2023.
The net worth of Rivian as of March 2025 stands at $12.30 billion.
Below is a summary of Rivian’s financial performance from 2020 through 2024:
| Fiscal Year | Revenue (in millions USD) | Year-over-Year Revenue Growth | Net Income (in millions USD) | Year-over-Year Net Income Change |
|---|
| 2020 | 0 | N/A | -1,018 | N/A |
| 2021 | 55 | N/A | -4,688 | N/A |
| 2022 | 1,658 | 2,916% | -6,752 | -44.03% |
| 2023 | 4,434 | 167.4% | -5,432 | 19.55% |
| 2024 | 5,390 | 21.6% | -4,747 | 12.61% |
Rivian Market Share and Competitors
Rivian Automotive, Inc. has emerged as a notable player in the electric vehicle (EV) market. As of early 2025, Rivian’s market share in the U.S. EV sector stands at approximately 2.4%, reflecting its growing presence in a competitive landscape.
In February 2025, Rivian’s R1S model achieved a significant milestone by entering the top five best-selling EVs in the United States. This achievement underscores the company’s potential to increase its market share in the coming years.
Key Competitors in the EV Market
Rivian faces competition from both established automakers and emerging EV manufacturers. Below is an overview of some of its primary competitors:
Tesla, Inc.
Tesla remains a dominant force in the EV industry, offering a range of models such as the Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y. Despite its leadership position, Tesla has experienced challenges, with sales underperforming in key regions.
Ford Motor Company
Ford has made significant strides in the EV market with models like the Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning. These vehicles have positioned Ford as a strong competitor to Rivian, especially in the electric pickup and SUV segments.
General Motors (GM)
GM’s commitment to an all-electric future is evident through its Ultium battery platform and a lineup that includes the Chevrolet Bolt EV and the GMC Hummer EV. The company’s extensive resources and brand recognition make it a formidable competitor.
Lucid Group, Inc.
Lucid focuses on luxury electric sedans, with its flagship model, the Lucid Air, boasting impressive range and performance metrics. Targeting the high-end market, Lucid presents competition in the premium EV segment.
XPeng Inc.
XPeng is a Chinese EV manufacturer gaining traction with models like the P7 and G3. Its focus on technology integration and autonomous driving features appeals to tech-savvy consumers, adding to the competitive pressure on Rivian.
Final Words
Rivian’s ownership is diversified among major corporations and institutional investors, with Amazon being the largest stakeholder. The company’s independent management, led by CEO R.J. Scaringe, drives its strategic direction. As Rivian continues to grow, its relationships with key shareholders and position in the EV market remain pivotal to its success.
FAQs
Who is the largest shareholder of Rivian?
Amazon holds approximately 14.1% of Rivian’s shares, making it the largest shareholder.
Does Volkswagen own a stake in Rivian?
Yes, Volkswagen AG owns about 8.494% of Rivian.
How much revenue did Rivian generate in 2024?
As of March 2025, Rivian’s trailing twelve months (TTM) revenue is approximately $4.97 billion.
Who are Rivian’s main competitors?
Rivian’s main competitors include Tesla, Ford, and General Motors, all offering electric vehicles in the market.
Does Rivian own any other brands?
No, Rivian focuses solely on its brand and does not own other brands or companies.
Who Owns Rivian R1T?
The Rivian R1T is owned by customers who purchase it directly from Rivian. The company itself is publicly traded, meaning no single entity owns all R1T trucks. However, Amazon, T. Rowe Price, and Volkswagen are among Rivian’s largest shareholders.
Is Rivian Owned by Tesla?
No, Rivian is not owned by Tesla. Rivian is an independent company with no direct ownership or control by Tesla. While both companies compete in the EV market, they operate separately.
Is Rivian Owned by Ford?
No, Ford no longer owns a stake in Rivian. Ford initially invested in Rivian in 2019 but sold off its shares in 2022. The companies were once expected to collaborate on EV development, but those plans did not materialize.
Who Makes Rivian?
Rivian manufactures its vehicles at its Normal, Illinois plant. The company designs and assembles its vehicles in-house, with key components sourced from suppliers like Samsung SDI (batteries) and Bosch (electronics). A second factory in Georgia is under development for future production.
Is Rivian Owned by Amazon?
No, Amazon does not own Rivian, but it is a major investor. Amazon holds 17.2% of Rivian’s shares and has an exclusive agreement for 100,000 electric delivery vans (EDVs) from Rivian. Despite its investment, Amazon does not control the company.
What is Rivian SUV Price?
The Rivian R1S, its all-electric SUV, starts at $74,900 before incentives. Higher trims and customization options can push the price above $100,000.