Earlier this month, Rivian announced during its Q1 earnings that a new pre-order system was coming, and today it has arrived.
The new pre-order system separates the reservation and configuration steps, says Rivian. Customers can browse through options but saving a specific build won’t be possible until the time is closer to its build slot, to reflect current pricing. “This new reservation system equips us to better navigate managing a large demand backlog with inflation uncertainties, planned content changes, and enhancements to ensure customers are offered the latest product offering,” said Rivian at the time.
Fast forward to Thursday, Rivian has unveiled the new reservation system, saying it “offers more insight into available options and configurations as you think about what vehicle to buy.” Rivian says you can create and visualize the vehicle and build you want, but you won’t be able to save it.
A refundable deposit of $1,000 USD ($1,500 CAD in Canada) will be required to reserve a vehicle.
“By saving your configuration closer to your estimated delivery date, your available options and pricing are more likely to be accurate and less likely to change,” says Rivian.
“Leading up to delivery day, you’ll receive regular communications from us regarding estimated delivery timing, charging, software evolution, EV lifestyle education and more. And your Guide will be there to help you every step of the way,” added the company.
Rivian lost $1.59 billion in Q1, as the company remains affected by inflation and supply chain constraints, plus production woes. Recently, customers have ramped up complaints about its new delivery process.
Yesterday, we saw the first hands-on video of Rivian’s RS1 electric SUV.
“We believe that the supply chain constraints will continue to be the limiting factor of our production. Based on the demonstrated production rates and progress we have seen in our facility, we believe if all supply constraints were resolved, our plant would have the ability to run at two times the currently expected output for the remainder of 2022,” said Rivian during its Q1 earnings.
