Fire at Rivian’s Illinois Factory Damages Over 30 Vehicles
As reported by Motor1.com, a significant fire broke out at Rivian’s production facility in Normal, Illinois, on Saturday night, resulting in extensive damage to more than 30 electric vehicles. The incident occurred just before 9:45 p.m., prompting a rapid response from local firefighters.
The blaze was confined to the factory’s north parking lot, where the affected vehicles were stored. Despite the severity, it did not spread beyond the parking area, and the factory itself remained unharmed. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Matt Swaney, spokesperson for the Normal Fire Department, stated that firefighters managed to extinguish the flames by midnight. However, due to the complex nature of EV battery fires, which can reignite, the local F.D. remained on-site to monitor the situation.
The exact cause is currently under investigation. Rivian, known for manufacturing its R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV at this facility, has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
An aerial photograph posted online the following morning revealed the extent of the destruction. Over 30 Rivian vehicles were reduced to their frames, with visible damage suggesting the entire group may be a total loss. While other vehicles in the vicinity appeared unaffected at first glance, they likely sustained damage from the intense heat.
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