Rivian Opens Service Center in South Fort Myers as R2 Model Nears Launch

Rivian opened a service and demonstration center this past September at 9987 Gulf Logistics Drive in South Fort Myers. The 20,000-square-foot building marks the electric car maker's fourth facility in Florida.

Coconut Creek-based Butters and Canada-based property management company BentallGreenOak constructed the warehouse following a $40 million, 300-acre land deal back in 2021.

The facility features four mechanical lifts and eight flat bays, with 10 service technicians working there. Each day, three mobile maintenance specialists drive out from the center to fix problems wherever they happen.

Customers can visit to plan their purchase with an adviser and take test drives, though this location doesn't operate like your typical dealership. The company sells cars through a direct-to-consumer model and delivers them after purchase. The center also sells branded merchandise, including T-shirts and hats.

"Folks are welcome to schedule an appointment to come in and meet with our teams, learn about the products, take a test drive," said Beau Whiteman, director of state affairs for the company, according to Gulfshore Business. "The most important purpose of this building is, once folks own the vehicles, they now have a place in their community to bring it should something go wrong."

This opening comes months before the planned rollout of the R2, a five-passenger SUV priced at $45,000. Current models include the R1T truck, which starts above $100,000, and the R1S SUV, which starts at about $76,000.

Federal tax incentives of up to $7,500 for EV purchases expired, but Whiteman said the brand stays confident about what lies ahead. "Even without the federal tax incentive, these products are compelling on their own," Whiteman said.