How New Auto Tariffs Could Impact Rivian

Starting April 2nd, the U.S. is slapping a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks. That’s bad news for foreign automakers—but Rivian? Not so much.

Since Rivian builds its EVs in Illinois, the tariffs won’t hit them directly. In fact, they might benefit. Imported EVs just got pricier, which could make the R1T and R1S look like a better deal to buyers weighing their options.

But there’s a catch. Rivian still depends on parts from overseas. If those components get more expensive or slowed down by trade drama, their costs could rise. Plus, if overall car prices jump, people might delay buying altogether—which would hurt everyone.

RJ Scaringe already flagged concerns about policy uncertainty and the potential of the shrinking EV tax credit, so this just adds another wrinkle.

Bottom line: Rivian’s in a better spot than most, but they’re not totally in the clear.

Jose Castillo Founder and Editor

Jose Castillo is the founder of RivianTrackr and has owned and driven Rivians since early in the brand's consumer history. He currently drives an R1S and an R2 in Florida and uses Universal Hands-Free every day. As a credentialed Rivian journalist, he has covered the R2 First Drive in Park City and SXSW firsthand and has spoken directly with Rivian's software and autonomy leadership.

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