Rivian CEO Scaringe assumes direct responsibility for product development

By Abhirup Roy and Bhanvi Satija

(Reuters) -Rivian Automotive said on Monday that CEO RJ Scaringe would directly oversee all product development effective immediately as the electric-vehicle maker gears up to unveil and launch its smaller and cheaper vehicle family.

Chief Product Development Officer Nick Kalayjian would move to the role of executive vice president, vehicle engineering and propulsion before transitioning to an advisory role, the company said.

Rivian is ramping up production of its flagship R1S sport utility vehicle and R1T pickup truck, even as fears of a slowdown in EV demand spreads through the industry, and is set to reveal its R1 vehicles next year with production expected in 2026.

"It's a big year for product for Rivian, so RJ is doubling down on the introduction of our new technologies in 2024 and the design and development of R2," a spokesperson for Rivian told Reuters. "Nick will be advising through 2024."

The company's product reporting structure will include software, autonomy, design, vehicle, electrical, propulsion and programs categories, Rivian said.