Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced continued momentum within the state’s manufacturing and electric vehicle industries as leaders at EV-maker Rivian announced they will invest $10 million to establish a remanufacturing facility in Bullitt County, creating 218 full-time, quality jobs.
“Kentucky’s manufacturing and EV industries have seen unprecedented growth recently,” said Gov. Beshear. “Continued investment in our key industries is critical for our immediate and long-term economic success. Rivian is an outstanding company that has been a major player in our state’s manufacturing and EV sectors, and this expansion is an exciting next step for the company here in the commonwealth. I look forward to their continued success here.”
Rivian currently stocks replacement parts at an existing 326,000-square-foot facility in Shepherdsville. This project will see the company improve and update the existing operation to establish a robust remanufacturing facility to support the warranty, repair and service footprint of the company’s EV trucks. The investment will help expand the capability and capacity of this existing site to remanufacture critical components such as electrical hardware, drive units and battery systems.
“We’re thrilled to be working with the State of Kentucky to help develop and expand Rivian’s first facility within the state," said Jimmy Knauf, Rivian’s executive vice president of facilities. “Our new site in Shepherdsville will support multiple business-critical functions for Rivian and help bring good-paying jobs and training for Kentuckians in the region.”
Founded in 2009, Rivian designs, develops, manufactures and supports electric trucks, SUVs and commercial vehicles, including the Rivian R1T pickup, named 2022 MotorTrend Truck of the Year. The company employs over 14,000 people and operates its principal manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois.
Rivian’s investment continues to solidify Kentucky’s position as a leader within the burgeoning EV sector, with significant investment throughout the past three years. Since June 2020, the commonwealth has seen over $10.6 billion in EV-related investments, with approximately 10,000 full-time jobs announced.
Bullitt County Judge/Executive Jerry Summers looks forward to a long and successful partnership between the company and community.
“We are excited about the growth and expansion of Rivian,” said Judge Summers. “This project is a true asset to Bullitt County and the City of Shepherdsville. The employment opportunities and the services they bring are quite unique and much needed. I look forward to a long partnership with them as valued community members.”
José Cubero, Mayor of Shepherdsville, highlighted the job opportunities and growth potential that this investment will bring to Shepherdsville.
“We are excited to hear one of our business partners is going to be growing here in the
City of Shepherdsville,” said Mayor Cubero. “It’s an honor that they believe in our community to offer new opportunities with competitive wages. As we invest in Shepherdsville, it’s nice to know Rivian can see growth potential as well.”
Bob Fouts, executive director of the Bullitt County Economic Development Authority, is excited to work with the company and welcomes them to Shepherdsville.
“We are thrilled to have Rivian choose to locate its high-paying remanufacturing Center of Excellence in its electric vehicle distribution facility in Shepherdsville,” said Fouts. “We welcome them to our business community and will work closely with them to make their location a success.”