Rivian Automotive (RIVN) and Mercedes-Benz's memorandum of understanding for joint production of electric vans in Europe is a pleasant surprise, Morgan Stanley said in a note.
Morgan Stanley analysts said that Mercedes-Benz brings "serious manufacturing chops, benefits from synergies, faster time-to-market and reduced risk" which will allow Rivian to focus on "extreme vertical integration" in its North American market.
The companies said Thursday they plan to build an electric-only production facility at a Mercedes-Benz site in Central/Eastern Europe, and will share investments and costs related to electric van production.
"The 50-50 [joint venture] combines Mercedes' ability to industrialize vans with Rivian's tech expertise in electric mobility," Morgan Stanley said.
The analysts said the move comes at a "crucial time" for Rivian as it ramps production at its Illinois factory amid supply disruptions and rising materials costs.
The analysts said that sharing costs of a European assembly plant with Mercedes could help Rivian with its cash burn and "conserve cash for allocation to its second U.S. assembly plant planned for 2025."
Morgan Stanley has an overweight rating on Rivian and a $60 price target.$Rivian Automotive, Inc.(RIVN)$