600 workers cut as EV startup prioritizes cash preservation ahead of critical mass-market crossover debut in 2026
TLDR: Rivian eliminated 4.5% of its workforce on October 23rd—its third layoff in four months—as the EV startup races to survive long enough to launch its make-or-break R2 crossover in early 2026. The company produced just 10,720 vehicles in Q3 2025 while delivering 13,201, burning through inventory to meet narrowed annual guidance of 41,500-43,500 units. With cash reserves declining and the $7,500 federal EV credit expired, Rivian joins a growing list of electric vehicle startups choosing retrenchment over expansion.
When your CEO takes over as interim chief marketing officer during layoffs, you’re not optimizing—you’re fighting for survival.
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