Why Rivian Calls the New EV Tax Credit a "Rug Pull"

As my friend looking to purchase an electric pickup or SUV like Rivian‘s, you may have questions about how recent changes to federal EV tax credits – what Rivian calls a "rug pull" – impact startup automakers. This policy shift might change the models you can actually afford. As we dive into the implications, focusing first explains why Rivian considers the revised incentive rules so damaging during a pivotal growth phase.

Summarizing Rivian‘s Tax Credit Dilemma

Rivian makes electric adventure vehicles like the R1T pickup and R1S SUV. Previously, these vehicles qualified for a $7,500 tax credit under outgoing policy. However, the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act replaces this with a "Clean Vehicle Credit" featuring tighter eligibility rules prioritizing American-made sourcing and affordability.

Overnight, this law change eliminates credits for nearly all current Rivian models. The strict battery component and pricing thresholds make qualification almost impossible this early in Rivian‘s production ramp. Losing tax credits now undermines sales, revenue, and manufacturing expansion goals during their critical juncture.

As a result, Rivian petitioned Washington for a two year transition period maintaining the old tax credit system alongside the new standards. This grace period allows Rivian and other startups breathing room to restructure supply chains for compliance. Rivian argues pulling credits without warning significantly hurts American EV job creation and consumer choice in the near term – undercutting the bill‘s own objectives.

Now with more context, we can fully break down the various factors challenging Rivian under the policy shift. Reviewing the details shows why they make a reasonable case for slower phase in rather than abrupt "rug pull."