The stock price of Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ: RIVN) rose nearly 5% early Thursday before settling at a gain of 2.7% by mid-morning. The uptick in stock price seems to be driven by investor sentiment influenced by recent developments in the electric vehicle (EV) industry.
Rivian recently announced an expansion plan for its Adventure DC fast charging network, which aims to accommodate a wider range of EV models. Unlike Tesla, which has scaled back its efforts to expand its charging network, Rivian’s initiative signals a commitment to enhancing charging infrastructure for EV owners.
The new fast charger will utilize the North American Charging Standard (NACS), a connector system initially developed by Tesla and now being standardized by SAE International. Rivian’s network is positioned to cater to almost every brand of EV currently available in North America, aligning with the growing demand for electric vehicles in the region.
Tesla’s recent decision to curtail its Supercharger network expansion and reduce its charging segment workforce has sparked frustration among some followers. Reports suggesting Tesla’s withdrawal from leases for new Supercharger sites in New York have further fueled discontent among EV enthusiasts.
In contrast, Rivian’s proactive approach to expanding its charging network and its growing lineup of EV offerings have positioned the company as a potential beneficiary of Tesla’s perceived missteps. Rivian’s stock has gained approximately 10% in value over the past week, reflecting growing investor interest and potential customer preference for Rivian’s EV solutions amidst changing dynamics in the EV market.