A powerful storm, including an EF-1 tornado with winds up to 110 mph, struck Rivian Automotive's manufacturing plant in Normal, Illinois. The storm caused a partial roof and wall collapse on a building designated for the assembly of the upcoming R2 SUV. No injuries were reported at the facility.
The damaged section, identified as 'Building 2', houses the body shop and general assembly for the R2 and appears to include a receiving area. Rivian has stated that it is evaluating the extent of the damage. While the company has not yet commented on the potential impact to the R2's production timeline, the vehicle is considered crucial for Rivian's future growth. The Normal plant is currently Rivian's only operating assembly facility.