Rivian's Senior Director of Autonomy Hardware Systems, Prasun Raha, has highlighted the significance of Amazon's deployment of Rivian electric delivery vans. Describing it as a "truly impactful mission," Raha referred to the recent rollout of 20,000 new vans, including those in the Raleigh-Durham area. This statement was made on January 7th.
"Billion packages using the Rivian delivery vans … truly impactful mission barely getting started #rivian #EDV #amazon," said Raha, Senior Director, Autonomy Hardware Systems at Rivian, according to LinkedIn. "Explore the many roles our team is actively hiring for and contribute to building the next platform to drive this progress forward!"
According to a news release from Amazon, these electric delivery vans are designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and comfort for drivers. Safety features include 360-degree visibility, advanced braking systems, collision warnings, and a large windshield for improved view. To improve driver comfort, the vans are equipped with climate-controlled ventilated seats and ergonomic cabins. The vehicles also feature integrated technologies such as routing and navigation support. Future artificial intelligence (AI) enhancements are expected to further streamline operations. These efforts align with Amazon’s broader strategy to decarbonize its fleet and reduce carbon emissions, with over 20,000 units deployed across the United States since 2022.
Screenshot of LinkedIn post
| LinkedIn
In 2024, Amazon reported reaching its one billionth delivery using an electric vehicle. The company said that the vans were designed with associates in mind and include features like a large windshield and advanced sensor systems for improved safety and operational efficiency.
WRAL NBC News reported that Amazon plans to have 100,000 electric Rivian vans by 2023. Chris Kaye, an Amazon Operations Manager at the Raleigh Delivery Station, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "I think it's very important tying it back to the climate pledge," he said. "We want to do what's good for our community, our people and the planet." The Rivian vans are integral to Amazon's Climate Pledge aiming for net-zero emissions by 2040.
Chris Sing, an Amazon delivery driver who reviewed a Rivian van for Inside EVs.com after driving it for a year, praised its features: "this thing's awesome," he said. Sing appreciated the keyless go system that allows package deliveries without removing the key fob from his pocket and automatic sensors that close cargo doors autonomously. He contrasted this with his previous experience at FedEx where manual operation was required at each stop. Additionally, Rivian offers comfort upgrades such as air conditioning and cooled seats—amenities often missing in UPS and FedEx trucks—and an integrated digital cluster with mapped routes eliminating reliance on phone batteries.
Rivian is an electric vehicle manufacturer specializing in all-electric delivery vans and adventure-ready trucks. It partners with Amazon to provide sustainable transportation solutions.