A second-generation R1S at electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian’s manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois, on June 21, 2024.
Joel Angel Juarez | Reuters
Some parts were damaged by the tornado Rivian AutomotiveThe company’s plant in central Illinois ceased operations over the weekend, according to a message sent by CEO RJ Scaringe to employees Sunday night seen by CNBC.
Scaligne said the tornado reached the factory. The affected area was used for parts storage and logistics for Rivian’s next-generation R2, a crucial product scheduled for release this spring.
Scaringe said operations in the affected areas are expected to resume this week, but other key parts of the plant, including assembly lines, are operating as planned. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident, a company spokesperson said.
“While Building 2 sustained damage and is currently closed for the time being to complete an assessment, I am extremely relieved to share that there were no injuries at the plant,” Scaringe said in a message to employees.
Scaringe said the company “will share more information as it becomes available, but for now our priority is to ensure the safety and support of our Normal (Illinois) team.”
Photos that appeared to be posted online of the aftermath, first reported by TechCrunch, showed damage to the roof and at least one wall of the newly constructed building.
The National Weather Service reported that the factory was damaged during a “significant tornado outbreak” across the upper Midwest on Friday. The tornado confirmed near the plant Friday night was classified as an EF1, with maximum wind speeds estimated at 160 mph, according to the NWS.
