- Rivian launched a referral program that rewards owners for getting their friends to buy Rivians.
- If someone buys a Rivian using an owner’s unique code, both parties can earn free charging at Rivian stations and money to spend in Rivian’s store.
- Customers who rack up enough points can get a new Rivian (mostly) for free.
Rivian launched a new referral program on Thursday that can earn new buyers and existing owners free fast-charging sessions, discounted swag or even a brand-new Rivian.
The Rivian Rewards program, much like Tesla’s on-again, off-again referral program, provides each Rivian owner with a unique code they can share with friends. If someone buys a Rivian using an owner’s code, both parties can get rewards. One caveat is that the R1S SUV or R1T truck must be purchased from Rivian’s inventory, which it calls the R1 Shop. Referrals don’t count for custom orders.
Right now, the freebies awarded after a qualifying purchase are as follows, per Rivian’s site:
- 750 points that can be redeemed in Gear Shop or R1 Shop (1 point equals 1 dollar in credit)
- 6 months of charging at Rivian Adventure Network sites (up to a lifetime limit of three years)
Those 750 points/dollars could go a long way toward buying handy Rivian products like the new, $1,400 Travel Kitchen or an $800 at-home charger. And right there in the FAQ section on the rewards page is a rather satisfying answer to the question on everybody’s mind: Does this mean I can buy an entire Rivian using reward points?
The answer is yes, as long as it’s in Rivian’s inventory. According to Rivian, you can’t use points for “vehicle deposits, custom vehicle configurations, reservations, or vehicle purchases outside of Rivian’s R1 Shop.” So you’d have to pony up the initial $500 deposit for an R1 in actual U.S. currency.
In theory, if you already own a Rivian and can get like 100 more people to buy Rivians using your code, you can get a mostly free EV. But if you’re that dedicated to the brand, I personally think Rivian CEO R.J. Scaringe should deliver your truck in person, buy you a beer and give you a hearty pat on the back for good measure.
Rivian’s Travel Kitchen.
Rivian says the program will expand over time. The 750-point reward applies to vehicle deliveries made through the end of this year. After that, the amount may change.
The program could help spark some sales during what’s expected to be a flat year of growth for the young automaker. Rivian is still on a long road to profitability, and it’s targeting production of 57,000 vehicles in 2024, just about the same as last year. Rivian expects sales to take off once it gets its more affordable, mass-market vehicle, the R2, off the ground in 2026.
For years, Tesla relied on a enthusiastic fanbase and word-of-mouth marketing to sell its cars. It’s had a referral program, too. Of course, it’s a whole different EV world with lots more competition these days, but it appears that Rivian is trying to replicate Tesla’s secret sauce. The startup already has legions of dedicated fans, so tapping into that group to promote sales and earn rewards makes perfect sense.
Just recently, Tesla revived its referral program as it experiences a rocky year of sales.
Contact the author: tim.levin@insideevs.com
Rivian, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has recently launched an innovative rewards program that has got the attention of many aspiring Rivian owners. The program, aptly named “Rivian Rewards,” offers participants the opportunity to earn points by engaging with the Rivian brand and completing specific activities. These points can then be redeemed for various rewards, including the ultimate prize of a free Rivian vehicle.
This exciting new program is a game-changer for those who have been dreaming of owning a Rivian but may have been deterred by the high price tag. By simply signing up for Rivian Rewards and getting involved in activities such as test driving a Rivian vehicle, attending Rivian events, or sharing Rivian content on social media, participants can start accumulating points towards their goal of winning a free Rivian.
The rewards program is a smart move by Rivian to engage with its community and build loyalty among its customers. By offering a tangible incentive such as a free vehicle, Rivian is not only attracting new customers but also rewarding those who are already passionate about their brand. This approach sets Rivian apart from other car manufacturers and creates a unique and memorable experience for its customers.
In addition to the free vehicle prize, Rivian Rewards also offers a range of other rewards that participants can redeem their points for. These rewards include exclusive Rivian merchandise, discounts on Rivian accessories, and invitations to special events. This adds an extra layer of excitement and motivation for participants to stay engaged with the program and continue earning points.
For those interested in participating in Rivian Rewards, the process is simple and straightforward. By visiting the Rivian website and signing up for the program, participants can start earning points immediately and tracking their progress towards their desired rewards. With a clear and transparent points system, participants can easily see how close they are to winning a free Rivian and can adjust their activities accordingly.
Overall, Rivian’s new rewards program is an exciting opportunity for fans of the brand to earn valuable rewards and potentially win a free Rivian vehicle. By engaging with the program and staying committed to earning points, participants can turn their dream of owning a Rivian into a reality. Whether you’re a long-time Rivian enthusiast or just discovering the brand, Rivian Rewards offers something for everyone and is sure to make a lasting impact on the electric vehicle market.