AT&T Partners With Rivian To Electrify Its Commercial Fleet

Photo: AT&T

The leading provider of mobile connectivity service in the United States AT&T has announced it will begin operating some Rivian Commercial Vans and R1 models in its fleet early next year as part of a pilot to analyze how Rivian’s EVs can improve fleet safety, cut costs, and reduce the telecommunication giant’s carbon footprint. AT&T also announced that it will be the sole provider of internet services to all Rivian vehicles in the U.S. and Canada.

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Rivian and Amazon partnered to develop the Rivian Commercial Van in an effort to make the most practical and environmentally-conscious delivery van on the market. Rivian announced in November that it would start selling Commercial Vans to other companies besides Amazon.

Photo: Rivian

The benefit of electric delivery vehicles is obvious: reduce carbon emissions produced by internal combustion delivery vehicles. Rivian spent countless hours optimizing the Commercial Van for safety, efficiency, and user-friendliness, as proven by its standard automatic emergency braking, collision warning system, and 360-degree camera system. Rivian claims range estimates between 153 and 161 miles on a charge, and prices start at $83,000 before any government tax rebates.

The Rivian Commercial Van Delivery 500 is 248.5-inches long and the extended length Delivery 700 is 278-inches long. For comparison, a standard-length Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is 234-inches long and the extended length Sprinter is 274-inches long.

Photo: Rivian

Dagan Mishoulam, VP, Strategy & Fleet at Rivian said, “We couldn’t be happier to collaborate with AT&T as we work together to help cut emissions and protect our environment. Around a quarter of CO2 emitted in the transportation sector in the US 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. We’re very much looking forward to expanding our relationship with AT&T to help them achieve their climate goals.”

I live in a densely-populated metropolitan area, and I see and hear delivery trucks outside every single day. Aside from the environmental benefits, I appreciate the lack of diesel clatter that the Rivian Commercial Vans and other electric delivery trucks provide as drivers rush to their next stop. The Rivian Commercial Van seems like a great option for companies working to reduce their carbon footprint and potential energy costs, but its low range numbers aren’t likely to encourage companies to ditch all of their ICE vans just yet.