Mercedes-Benz Vans and Rivian announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to initiate a strategic partnership.
The agreement is related to production of bespoke large battery-electric vans, for both Mercedes-Benz Vans and Rivian, through a new joint venture in Europe.
The start of an all-new joint manufacturing facility for electric vans – “at an existing Mercedes-Benz site in Central/Eastern Europe” – is expected “in a few years.”
According to Automotive News, this new undisclosed site might actually be the Mercedes-Benz’s plant in Kecskemet, Hungary, which opened in 2012 and is currently engaged in A-, B- and C-Class models.
“Subject to the parties entering into final binding agreements and to obtaining the relevant regulatory clearances, the companies intend to establish a new joint venture manufacturing company with the purpose of investing in, and operating, a factory in Europe to produce large electric vans for both Mercedes-Benz Vans and Rivian, starting in a …