Rivian and Volkswagen’s EV Tech Collaboration Sparks Interest from Other OEMs

Credit: Rivian

Rivian, the U.S. electric pickup and SUV manufacturer, is in discussions with other automakers about supplying its software and electrical architecture, according to a senior executive.

The joint venture between Rivian and Volkswagen, formed after the German automaker’s $5.8 billion investment in November 2024, aims to integrate advanced electrical infrastructure and Rivian’s software technology into both companies’ upcoming electric vehicles.

See also: Volkswagen Explores Deepening Partnership with Rivian in EV Expansion

Credit: Rivian

Wassym Bensaid, Rivian’s Chief Software Officer and co-CEO of the joint venture, noted that the partnership with Volkswagen will provide Rivian with greater production volumes, helping to secure better supplier deals and reduce costs, an important factor as the electric vehicle market faces a slowdown in demand. At the same time, Volkswagen, along with other traditional automakers, will gain access to software and technology that has been a challenge to develop in-house.

Bensaid stated, “I’d say that many other OEMs are knocking on our door,” referring to Original Equipment Manufacturers. However, he declined to name the automakers in talks or disclose the specific stages of the discussions.

See also: Volkswagen Raises Rivian Stake by 16% to $5.8 Billion, Launches Joint Venture for EV Development

Credit: Rivian

Rivian’s architecture, which requires fewer electronic control units and less wiring, simplifies manufacturing while reducing vehicle weight. The software-defined vehicles built on this architecture can be updated over the air, positioning Rivian at the forefront of an area where many established automakers are still playing catch-up.

“There is demand,” Bensaid added, pointing out that the joint venture’s immediate focus is on rolling out Rivian’s R2, a smaller, more affordable SUV, by 2027 and integrating the technology into other Volkswagen brands. He further emphasized that any automaker looking to advance technologically would see the joint venture as a key partner for collaboration. Industry analysts believe that this joint venture could become a leading platform for electric vehicles in the Western market, alongside Tesla. Additionally, the venture is seen as helping alleviate Rivian’s capital concerns.

See also: Rivian to Introduce Hands-Free and Eyes-Off Driving Systems in Next Two Years

Credit: Scout Motors

Source: Reuters

Add a comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Keep Up to Date with the Most Important EV News

By pressing the Subscribe button, you confirm that you have read and are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use