Rivian’s Spaces is an EV truck and SUV manufacturer and recently, the brand opened a brick-and-mortar store in New York City’s Meatpacking District. Planned to be the first of several retail activations, the brand has thoughtfully designed the space to be "casual and inviting, where anyone who is curious is welcome to come in to learn more about [Rivian's Spaces] and its products."
The brand consciously strays away from the traditional aesthetic of the auto dealership, which in many ways is professional and distant. In contrast, Rivian's Spaces' new New York outpost achieves warmth and coziness thanks to the strategic use of materials, furnishings, and educational displays that visitors can interact with to learn more about EV technology and the company's offerings.
Inviting Contemporary Auto Dealerships
Rivian’s Spaces Aims to Disrupt the Auto Retail Space
Trend Themes
1. Warm and Cozy Auto Dealerships - The trend of creating warm and cozy auto dealerships disrupts the traditional professional and distant aesthetic, making the shopping experience more inviting and comfortable.
2. Interactive Retail Activations - The trend of incorporating interactive displays and educational materials in auto dealerships disrupts the passive browsing experience, allowing customers to actively engage and learn about the products.
3. Alternative Auto Retail Spaces - The trend of opening brick-and-mortar stores in non-traditional locations disrupts the conventional auto dealership model, creating unique and unexpected experiences for customers.
Industry Implications
1. Electric Vehicle (EV) Manufacturing - The EV manufacturing industry can leverage warm and cozy dealership designs to create a more welcoming and customer-centric experience, promoting the adoption of electric vehicles.
2. Retail Design and Furnishings - The retail design and furnishings industry can capitalize on the demand for interactive and educational displays in auto dealerships, providing innovative solutions that enhance customer engagement and product discovery.
3. Real Estate - The real estate industry can explore opportunities to partner with auto manufacturers to accommodate brick-and-mortar retail activations in unconventional locations, adding value to their properties and attracting niche customers.