Rivian R1T Electric Vehicles Appeared at Auction in Australia
The Australian Market and Electric Pickups
Australia has always been one of the largest markets for pickups, however, Rivian’s electric models have so far not been available to local buyers. The American electric vehicle manufacturer does not offer right-hand drive versions, hence it has not officially entered the Australian market.
The situation may change thanks to a batch of Rivian R1Ts that ended up in Australia and may be sold to the public. However, there is a significant obstacle: these vehicles cannot be used on public roads, which significantly limits their practicality.
How Did the Electric Pickups End Up in Australia?
The batch of Rivians arrived in Australia thanks to the company MEVCO, a startup from Perth, which in 2022 planned to supply electric commercial vehicles for the mining industry. In 2024, the company purchased 13 Rivian R1Ts for local trials, as well as three electric Toyota Hiluxes converted by SEA Electric. However, MEVCO’s ambitions did not materialize: due to financial problems and debts, the company declared bankruptcy in September 2025.
During the liquidation, the entire fleet will be sold through Grays Auctions in Western Australia. This provides a unique opportunity for local electric vehicle enthusiasts to purchase American pickups, albeit with serious limitations.
Can the Rivian R1T Be Used in Australia?
According to Australian law, left-hand drive vehicles can be registered for public roads only if they are over 30 years old. There are limited exceptions for rare imported models, but since the Rivian R1T is a mass-produced vehicle, it does not fall under these exceptions. Thus, owners will only be able to use them on private property, for example, on farms, mining sites, or remote tracks.
Theoretically, converting the vehicles to right-hand drive configuration could make them suitable for roads, but this process is very costly.
Auction Details and Modifications
The Rivian R1Ts from the MEVCO fleet are second-generation models equipped with dual electric motors. Some of them were adapted for work in the Australian mining industry. The photographs show additional equipment such as bull bars, sports bars, Kevlar underbody protection, wiring for additional equipment, and special sliding drawers behind the cabin.
We are working closely with the administrator and completing legal and compliance checks to ensure that when these vehicles are sold, the title will be transferred to the buyers as smoothly as their ride.
Additional details regarding the auction will be announced after the formal procedures are completed.
This situation highlights the complexity of integrating innovative vehicles into markets with specific requirements, such as right-hand drive configuration. Despite the popularity of electric pickups, the lack of adaptation to local standards can significantly limit their practical use. For Australian enthusiasts, this deal may be an opportunity to own a rare vehicle, but with obvious compromises regarding its application.