What Rivian is and who sells them

Rivian is an electric vehicle manufacturer that builds trucks and SUVs. The company sells directly to customers through its own website and showrooms rather than through traditional dealerships — this is called direct-to-consumer sales. You order a vehicle online, configure it to your preferences, and Rivian handles the sale and delivery to you.

Rivian currently makes two main models: the R1T (an electric pickup truck) and the R1S (an electric SUV). Both are built at Rivian's manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois. The company also has plans for additional models, though availability and timing change over time.

Because Rivian sells directly rather than through franchised dealers, the buying process works differently than it does at a traditional car lot. You will not negotiate price with a salesperson, and you will not find used Rivian inventory at a separate dealership location.

Key Takeaways

  • Rivian sells directly to customers online and through its own showrooms, not through independent dealerships.
  • You can configure and order an R1T truck or R1S SUV on Rivian's website, and the company handles delivery to your location.
  • Rivian offers financing through partner lenders, and you can explore loan terms before you place an order.
  • Delivery timelines vary based on the model, configuration, and current production capacity, and Rivian updates your estimated delivery date as production progresses.
  • You can visit a Rivian showroom to see vehicles in person and speak with staff, but the actual purchase happens through the online ordering system.

How to order a Rivian online

Start by going to Rivian's website and selecting either the R1T or R1S. You will then move through a configuration tool where you choose the battery size, motor configuration (single or dual motor), exterior color, interior materials, and wheel style. Each choice affects the final price and estimated range.

Once you have configured your vehicle, you will see the total price and can proceed to place a reservation. Rivian typically asks for a refundable deposit at this stage — the amount varies depending on the model and current promotions. This deposit holds your place in the production queue.

After your reservation is confirmed, Rivian will assign you an estimated delivery window. This window is not fixed and will shift as the company adjusts production schedules. You can check your order status and updated delivery estimate by logging into your Rivian account on their website.

Financing a Rivian purchase

Rivian does not lend money directly. Instead, the company partners with external lenders — banks and credit unions — to offer financing options. When you are configuring your vehicle on Rivian's website, you can enter your financial information to see loan offers from these partners.

The interest rate and loan terms you receive depend on your credit score, income, and the lender's requirements. You can review multiple offers before you commit to one. Some lenders may require a down payment, and loan terms typically range from 36 to 84 months, though this varies by lender.

You do not have to complete financing through Rivian's website. You can also arrange a loan through your own bank or credit union before you take delivery. If you choose this route, bring your loan paperwork with you when you pick up your vehicle.

What happens between order and delivery

After you place your order, Rivian will send you updates about your vehicle's production status. You will receive notifications when your vehicle enters the factory, when it is being built, and when it is ready for delivery. The timeline from order to delivery typically ranges from several months to over a year, depending on the model, configuration, and production capacity at the time you order.

Before your vehicle is delivered, Rivian will contact you to schedule a delivery appointment. You can choose to pick up your vehicle at a Rivian service location or have it delivered to your home or another address. Delivery fees explore if you choose home delivery, and the cost depends on your location.

When you arrive for delivery, a Rivian representative will walk you through the vehicle's features, charging system, and controls. This is called the delivery experience. You will also sign final paperwork and complete the financing process if you have not already done so.

Visiting a Rivian showroom

Rivian operates showrooms in major cities where you can see the R1T and R1S in person, sit inside them, and ask questions. Showroom staff can explain the vehicles' features, battery options, and pricing, but they cannot complete a sale on-site. All purchases must go through the online ordering system.

Showrooms are useful if you want to understand the vehicle's size, interior layout, and build quality before you commit to an order. Some showrooms also offer test drives, though availability varies by location. Check Rivian's website to find a showroom near you and to see what services that location offers.

Understanding Rivian's warranty and service

Rivian includes a warranty with every new vehicle. The basic warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for a set period — typically four years or a certain number of miles, whichever comes first. The battery and electric drivetrain have a separate, longer warranty that extends further.

Rivian operates its own service centers to handle repairs, maintenance, and warranty work. You cannot take a Rivian to a traditional car dealership for service. Service center locations are limited compared to traditional dealerships, so check whether there is a service center near you before you order. Rivian is expanding its service network, but availability varies by region.

Comparing Rivian to other electric truck and SUV options

Other manufacturers also make electric trucks and SUVs, and they use different sales models. Tesla sells directly like Rivian does. Ford, Chevrolet, and other traditional automakers sell electric trucks and SUVs through franchised dealerships, which means you negotiate with a dealer and may find inventory on a lot.

The main trade-off is convenience versus choice. Direct-to-consumer sales like Rivian's let you configure exactly what you want and avoid negotiation, but you wait for production and cannot walk onto a lot and drive home the same day. Dealership sales let you see and test drive inventory when ready, but you are limited to what the dealer has in stock and you negotiate the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I test drive a Rivian before I order one?

Some Rivian showrooms offer test drives, but not all locations do. Check Rivian's website to see whether the showroom near you has test drive availability. You can also ask about test drive options when you visit in person or contact the showroom by phone.

What if I want to cancel my Rivian order?

You can cancel your order and receive a refund of your deposit, though the timing and process depend on how far along your vehicle is in production. Contact Rivian directly through your account or by phone to discuss cancellation. The sooner you cancel, the simpler the process.

How long does it take to get a Rivian after I order?

Delivery timelines vary widely based on the model, configuration, and current production capacity. When you place your order, Rivian will show you an estimated delivery window. This window shifts as production schedules change, and Rivian updates it regularly. Some customers receive their vehicles within months; others wait longer.

Do I need to charge a Rivian at home?

You do not have to, but home charging is the most convenient option for daily use. Rivian can install a home charger as part of the delivery process for an additional fee. You can also charge at public charging stations, though charging away from home takes longer and may cost more per mile than home charging.

What is the difference between the R1T and R1S?

The R1T is a pickup truck with an open bed for cargo. The R1S is an SUV with three rows of seating and a cargo area behind the rear seats. Both use the same electric motors and battery options, so the main difference is body style and interior layout. Choose based on whether you need a truck bed or prefer an enclosed SUV.