Australian buyers may soon have access to Rivian’s sought-after electric trucks, but with a major restriction: they can’t legally drive them on public roads. A batch of 13 Rivian R1T pickups, originally intended for mining operations, are going up for auction after the collapse of the startup that imported them.
The Backstory: Mining Dreams and Financial Realities
In 2024, MEVCO, a Perth-based company, purchased the Rivian R1Ts to test their viability for use in the Australian mining sector. Alongside electric Toyota Hilux conversions, MEVCO aimed to electrify the industry. However, the venture failed when funding dried up, and the company entered administration in September 2025. Now, the fleet is being liquidated through Grays Auctions in Western Australia.
Why Can’t You Drive Them?
Australian vehicle regulations prevent the registration of left-hand-drive vehicles unless they are over 30 years old. The Rivians, being modern mass-produced trucks, don’t qualify for exemptions. This means buyers are limited to off-road use: farms, mines, private tracks, or driveways only. Converting them to right-hand drive is possible but expensive and complex.
What’s Included?
The auctioned Rivians are second-generation models with dual electric motors, modified for mining use. They come equipped with rugged accessories such as bull bars, underbody protection, custom wiring harnesses, and sliding storage drawers. The trucks have been adapted for challenging terrain and harsh working conditions.
Michael Fernandes of Grays Auctions assures that the auction process is legally compliant, aiming for a smooth transfer of ownership despite the vehicles’ restricted use.
“We’re currently working closely with the administrator and completing our legal and compliance due diligence to ensure that when these vehicles hit the open market, ownership will pass to buyers as smoothly as these vehicles drive.”
Why This Matters
This situation highlights the challenges of EV adoption in markets with strict import regulations. While demand for electric trucks is growing, bureaucratic hurdles can prevent access to innovative vehicles. The auction offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and private landowners, but underscores the need for regulatory flexibility to accommodate new automotive technologies.
