
Fri Jul 18 02:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:
**Rivian Drives into Atlanta with East Coast Headquarters, Cementing Georgia Commitment**
**Atlanta, GA –** Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian announced Thursday it is establishing its East Coast headquarters in Atlanta, signaling a continued commitment to Georgia despite facing economic headwinds. The company has leased 45,000 square feet in the Junction Krog District building along the Beltline Eastside Trail and plans to employ 100 workers by the end of 2025, scaling up to 500 by the end of 2026.
The move comes as Rivian prepares to break ground in 2026 on its planned $5 billion manufacturing facility in southern Morgan and Walton counties, a project slated to create 7,500 jobs. Construction is expected to be completed by 2028. The Atlanta office will play a key role in supporting the company’s growth, especially as it gears up to produce its new R2 crossover SUV at its Illinois factory in early 2026 and eyes expansion into the European market.
“We are excited to establish our East Coast head office in Atlanta,” said Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe in a statement, citing the city’s talent pool, creativity, and forward-thinking mindset.
Gov. Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens have both lauded the investment. “Atlanta continues to lead in EV innovation and technology integration,” said Dickens, while Kemp hailed the move as “the latest demonstration of their commitment to the Peach State.”
Rivian’s CFO, Claire McDonough, emphasized the Atlanta location’s alignment with the company’s environmental values, particularly its Beltline access and the office’s unique natural setting.
While Rivian’s initial surge in popularity has been tempered by financial challenges and setbacks, the company remains committed to its Georgia factory and the production of the R2. The project is supported by a $1.5 billion incentive package from the state and a $6.6 billion construction loan from the Department of Energy. McDonough noted the loan is structured to be disbursed as the company progresses with construction on the factory.
The new Atlanta headquarters is a separate investment from the factory project, with no government incentives tied to it.