Rivian’s planned $6.6 billion federal loan for its upcoming electric vehicle manufacturing plant in Georgia is under scrutiny following a freeze on federal loans by U.S. President Donald Trump, raising concerns about the project’s funding.
The U.S. Department of Energy approved the loan last month, just before the change in administration. However, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said he is uncertain about the loan’s status under the new administration. “They secured that loan at the tail end of the Biden administration, and I think there’s no secret that the Trump administration is taking a look at all those things,” Kemp told Channel 2 News this week. “So I don’t really know where that stands right now.”
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Although the freeze on federal funds was lifted within days, it has caused uncertainty around major projects, including Rivian’s facility. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff warned that the suspension of federal grants could create further instability.
Despite the concerns, Rivian remains confident that the funding will remain available when needed. “We’re working hard to onshore U.S. manufacturing, providing thousands of American jobs here in Georgia,” a Rivian spokesperson said. The company has already begun hiring for construction and management roles, with recruitment expected to accelerate as work on the facility resumes.
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The loan will be issued in two phases, with an initial $3.4 billion followed by an additional $2.6 billion. CEO RJ Scaringe said the funds will “help us accelerate the launch of our Georgia plant for R2 and R3, providing thousands of jobs in the state.” The 1,744-acre site, located 40 miles east of Atlanta, is expected to create 7,500 permanent jobs and another 2,000 construction positions.
Rivian plans to produce its smaller, more affordable R2 and R3 models at the facility, aiming to expand its customer base. The midsize R2 SUV, expected to start at around $45,000, will be priced significantly lower than the company’s existing R1S and R1T models. Once fully operational, the plant is projected to produce up to 400,000 EVs annually. Rivian aims to begin customer deliveries by the end of 2028.
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