Dallas-based AT&T has agreed to purchase Rivian electric vehicles through a pilot program designed to reduce emissions.
“We’re excited to purchase Rivian EVs for our fleet,” said Hardmon Williams, senior vice president of AT&T Connected Solutions, in a news release.
“This pilot is another important step in our ongoing efforts toward sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint and embracing a cleaner future for our operations. With advanced connectivity and a vision for a sustainable future, Rivian is setting the standard for the evolving demands of modern transportation.”
AT&T said it expects to add the Rivian commercial van and R1 vehicles to its fleet early next year as the company commits to carbon neutrality by 2035 by switching to hybrid and electric vehicles and optimizing routes. Additionally, AT&T is the exclusive provider of connectivity to all Rivian vehicles in the U.S. and Canada.
“We couldn’t be happier to collaborate with AT&T as we work together to help cut emissions and protect our environment,” said Dagan Mishoulam, Rivian’s vice president of strategy and fleet.
“Around a quarter of CO2 emitted in the transportation sector in the U.S. comes from commercial vans, so it’s imperative we do all we can as soon as possible to help cut emissions. Our category-defining vehicles offer some of the most advanced technology in the sector and are continually improved through over-the-air updates.”
In late 2021, Rivian chose to build a $5 billion plant in Atlanta instead of Fort Worth, despite Fort Worth’s city council approving a $440 million economic-development agreement near downtown, The Dallas Morning News reported. Robert Sturns, Fort Worth economic development director, said the Walsh family, which owns the land that was offered as part of the incentives for Rivian, “pushed the deal hard and played the bid competitively,” per the DMN.
Headquartered in Detroit, Rivian designs, develops, and manufactures electric vehicles and accessories.
