A collaboration between Rivian and the Volkswagen Group has caught the attention of other automakers as Rivian prepares to introduce more advanced driver-assist systems.
Initially announced in June and officially established in November, the joint venture involves Volkswagen acquiring a $5.8 billion stake in Rivian in return for access to the U.S. automaker’s electric architecture and software development expertise. Now, it seems that other automakers are expressing interest in joining the partnership.
2025 Rivian R1T
“We have many other OEMs expressing interest in collaborating with us,” said Wassym Bensaid, who serves as Rivian’s chief software officer and CEO of the joint venture, in an interview with Reuters published on Thursday. However, Bensaid refrained from disclosing the names of these automakers.
Rivian’s electric architecture, utilized in the current R1S SUV and R1T pickup truck, offers advantages such as requiring fewer electronic control units and wiring. This feature appeals to other automakers seeking to reduce weight, cost, and complexity in their vehicles, as reported by Reuters. Nevertheless, Rivian’s immediate focus is on bringing the more affordable R2 electric SUV into production and then integrating its technology with VW Group vehicles, emphasized Bensaid.
Rivian R2
“We are in discussions with other OEMs and exploring ways to support them in the future,” revealed Bensaid to Reuters. “For any OEM seeking technological advancement, our joint venture serves as a key partner for collaboration.”
In a separate interview with Reuters also published on Thursday, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe mentioned the company’s plans to introduce a hands-free driver-assist system in 2025 and an “eyes-off” system in 2026. While hands-free systems like Ford’s Blue Cruise and General Motors’ Super Cruise are already on the market, Mercedes-Benz stands alone as the only automaker offering a true eyes-off system in the U.S., albeit in limited capacity.