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Rivian: From EV Maker to Tech Supplier?
18 Oct
Summary
- Rivian develops AI and custom silicon for vehicles.
- Company explores tech licensing and robotics ventures.
- Future ambitions include robotaxis and diverse vehicle forms.
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe is steering the electric vehicle manufacturer towards becoming a broad-based technology supplier. The company is significantly increasing its vertical integration, developing proprietary AI models for its in-vehicle assistant and building a complete automated driving system.
Rivian's diversification includes creating custom silicon, collaborating with Arm and TSMC on a 5 nm processor. Furthermore, a $5.8 billion joint venture with VW Group focuses on electric architecture and software development, with ambitions to expand into AI and autonomy.
Beyond its core automotive operations, Rivian is involved in spin-off startups like Also for micromobility and Mind Robotics for industrial robots. Mind Robotics, in which Rivian holds a 31% stake, is poised to supply robots for Rivian's factories and other companies.
Scaringe also aims to license Rivian's technology, including its electric architecture, software, AI models, and autonomy stack, to various brands. This strategy positions Rivian to potentially serve multiple industries and unlock new design possibilities for personally owned autonomous vehicles.
Recent industry news includes significant funding rounds for autonomous driving and battery technology startups, alongside strategic partnerships. Volvo is enhancing its automated driving systems with Nvidia technology, and Waymo is expanding its robotaxi services across North America.
