Rivian Preps for Tariffs by Stockpiling Batteries and Shifting Supply to U.S.

Rivian isn’t sitting around waiting to see what happens with Trump’s proposed tariffs—they’re already prepping. While other automakers are pulling back forecasts, Rivian quietly started stockpiling EV batteries last year, locking in supplies before costs potentially spike.

According to Bloomberg, Rivian paid upfront to secure lithium-iron phosphate cells from China’s Gotion for its commercial vans. Gotion even built a separate reserve in the U.S. for extra security. For the R1T and R1S, Rivian is working with Samsung SDI to shift more battery supply from Korea to the U.S., all to avoid getting caught off guard.

And with the more affordable R2 on the way, Rivian’s locking in new battery deals—including one with LG that will eventually source from Arizona. The message is clear: tariffs or not, Rivian plans to keep building without disruption.