Hardware · Updated 15 Oct, 06:13 pm IST
Tesla Cybercab assembly lead joins Rivian to run R2 general assembly
Why it matters for readers: Explains who is running the factory floor for two notable new EV models and why that matters.
- Jody Kerns announced on LinkedIn that he is moving from Tesla to Rivian to lead general assembly for the R2.1
- Kerns joined Tesla in January 2024 and took over Cybercab general assembly in Austin in February 2026, the month the first steering-wheel-less Cybercab rolled off the line.1
- He is the second leader tied to the Cybercab launch to leave Tesla this year; the head of Cybercab new product introduction left in April.1
- Kerns previously spent 14 years at Volkswagen of America, finishing as Director of Assembly (2021–2024) managing about 1,200 people, and earlier worked in Toyota paint shops.1
- Rivian says Kerns will aim to make the R2 “the best electric SUV in the market” by running its general assembly in Normal, Illinois.1
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