Electric-vehicle startup Rivian Automotive plans to open a second manufacturing plant in the U.S., a move that comes as other car companies also are accelerating in the shift to battery-powered vehicles.
A Rivian spokeswoman said Thursday the company is early in the process of scouting out locations. Rivian already has one plant in Normal, Ill., where it plans to start production on its debut models this year.
Reuters first reported the news of the second Rivian factory.
Rivian’s planned expansion further highlights how the auto industry is deepening its commitment to electric vehicles, a technology whose adoption is being driven by tougher auto-emissions regulations globally and the popularity of Tesla Inc.
General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co. and other major auto makers are rushing to put out new plug-in models, and the Biden administration is prioritizing policies that help consumers make the switch from gas-powered cars.
