Rivian's (NASDAQ:RIVN) future may lie more in becoming a supplier and tech partner rather than continuing as a standalone electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, Morgan Stanley analysts argued in a Tuesday note.
According to the Wall Street behemoth, such a shift strategy could offer RIVN a more stable and profitable path, leveraging its technology and manufacturing capabilities in collaboration with other automakers.
"Rivian has a greater chance of success as an auto/tech supplier than as a manufacturer," analysts noted, citing the significant costs and risks associated with producing EVs independently.
They also said that partnerships, like the one Rivian has with Volkswagen (VW), provide an opportunity for the company to focus on its strengths in technology and innovation without the heavy burden of full-scale vehicle manufacturing.
“Anything that takes Rivian away from making their own cars can be a positive,” the note emphasizes.
Moreover, analysts raised their Rivian stock price target from $13 to $17, driven by expectations of higher margins and reduced operational expenditures. The firm's updated model anticipates Rivian producing vehicles primarily at its Normal, Illinois facility, with future models potentially being developed in partnership with VW.
“We no longer contemplate the Georgia plant in any of our scenarios at this time,” analysts added.
Still, there are several uncertainties surrounding the VW partnership, including the detailed mechanics and long-term outcomes of the joint venture.
Analysts said VW’s cash could reduce near-term volatility in RIVN stock, though “it doesn’t change our view that Rivian may have a better future as a Tier 1 supplier/SDV ‘tech partner’ than as a stand-alone maker of EVs.”