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Rivian Says R2 Work to Resume This Week After EF-1 Tornado Hits Illinois Plant

The disruption touches the lower-cost R2 SUV central to Rivian’s push toward profitability.

Overview

  • Rivian paused operations in Building 2 at its Normal, Illinois plant after a tornado hit the facility, and CEO RJ Scaringe told staff in a Sunday night email that R2 work should restart this week.
  • The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 rating with peak winds near 110 mph and a 10.3-mile path from the west side of Normal toward Towanda.
  • The strike hit a newer section used for R2 logistics, and photos showed a partially collapsed roof and wall, exposed beams, and water on the factory floor.
  • The company reported no injuries, said other plant operations continue as planned, and has not said whether the pause will change the R2 rollout timeline.
  • Rivian began building saleable R2 units earlier this month, with employee deliveries planned for this month and customer configuration windows set to open in May.