Rivian is preparing to significantly expand the capabilities of its Electric Delivery Van (EDV), with new all-wheel-drive (AWD) and larger-battery variants designed to support broader route coverage across the United States.
The move comes as Amazon now operates more than 30,000 Rivian-built electric delivery vans nationwide — making the EDV one of the most visible commercial EVs on American roads.
Launched in 2021, the EDV was initially engineered for high-density, last-mile delivery routes. Current models feature a single 320-horsepower motor driving the front wheels and a 100 kWh battery pack.
Range currently stands at:
– EDV 500: 161 miles
– EDV 700: 160 miles
That range profile has worked well for urban and suburban delivery routes. However, front-wheel drive and modest range have limited the van’s deployment in rural regions, longer routes, and harsher winter climates.
That’s about to change.
30% More Range and All-Wheel Drive
In its latest shareholder update, Rivian confirmed it is developing A larger battery pack targeting roughly a 30% range increase, and a new all-wheel-drive configuration, likely adding a second motor to the rear axle.
If achieved, the upgraded EDV could offer approximately 209 miles of range, dramatically expanding operational flexibility within Amazon’s logistics network.
AWD will also improve traction in snow, mud, and unpaved conditions — key factors for expanding EV delivery operations into more remote and cold-weather regions across the U.S.
Rivian says these updates are intended to “expand EDV route coverage in Amazon’s network,” signaling continued deep collaboration between the two companies.
A Cornerstone of Amazon’s Electrification Strategy
The partnership between Rivian and Amazon dates back to 2019, when Amazon committed to purchasing 100,000 electric vans by 2030 and became Rivian’s largest investor.
Today, the EDV fleet operates in thousands of U.S. cities. While Amazon has diversified its EV suppliers — including a recent order of 5,000 electric vans from Mercedes-Benz Vans — Rivian remains its primary electric van partner in the United States.
Rivian designed the EDV specifically around Amazon’s delivery workflow. Efficiency-focused features include:
– An automatic bulkhead door that opens when drivers reach a stop
– Optimized cargo layout for rapid package access
– Lower total cost of ownership (TCO) compared to combustion vans
The EDV has become a key part of Amazon’s push toward fleet electrification and emissions reduction.
Big Year Ahead for Rivian
Beyond commercial vehicles, 2026 is shaping up to be a major year for Rivian. Pre-production builds of the upcoming Rivian R2 began earlier this year at the company’s Normal, Illinois plant, with customer deliveries targeted for the second quarter.
The R2 will introduce new technologies, including Rivian’s third-generation hands-off driver assistance system and a new high-performance computing platform.
But in the near term, expanding the EDV’s capability could have an even larger impact — bringing electric delivery deeper into rural America and accelerating fleet electrification at scale.
With more range, better traction, and Amazon’s continued backing, Rivian’s Electric Delivery Van is set to move beyond city streets and into a broader role in America’s logistics future.
