Wassym Bensaid, the chief software officer at Rivian and co-CEO of the platform joint venture with Volkswagen known as RV Tech, sat down for an interview to discuss the innovative work they are doing in the automotive industry. The joint venture, which started with a substantial investment from Volkswagen, aims to develop the operating system and electrical architecture for future EVs from Volkswagen and its associated brands.
In the interview, Wassym highlighted the importance of preserving Rivian’s unique software culture while collaborating with Volkswagen. He discussed the division of software development between Rivian and the joint venture, emphasizing the shared core technology that would benefit both companies.
The conversation also delved into Rivian’s upcoming projects, including the launch of the more affordable Rivian R2 and the introduction of the AI-powered Rivian Assistant in the R1 vehicles. Wassym explained that the Rivian Assistant represents a significant step towards creating a more personalized and interactive software platform in their cars.
Having experienced the Rivian Assistant firsthand, the interviewer shared their insights on its capabilities and limitations, prompting Wassym to address the challenges and future developments in AI and voice technology for vehicles. Wassym also expressed his views on traditional car interfaces, suggesting that in-car buttons are becoming obsolete in the age of advanced software systems like the Rivian Assistant.
Overall, the interview provided a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, with a focus on the increasing role of software in modern vehicles. Wassym’s role at Rivian and in the joint venture with Volkswagen exemplifies the ongoing shift towards more sophisticated and integrated software solutions in the automotive sector. The automotive industry is currently experiencing a significant divide between traditional OEMs and new tech-forward companies. This gap has been widening due to the changing expectations of consumers, who now demand a higher level of experience and convenience in their vehicles. Traditional OEMs have been struggling to meet these demands, particularly in terms of software content, which requires a different type of talent and cultural change within the organization.
Many OEMs have attempted to develop software in-house, partner with other companies, or use Tier-1 suppliers to address these challenges. However, these approaches have not always been successful, leading to a need for new and innovative solutions. One such solution is the partnership between Rivian and the Volkswagen Group, which has allowed both companies to leverage their respective strengths and technologies to create a scalable and versatile platform for electric vehicles.
The concept of a “software-defined vehicle” has become a buzzword in the industry, with varying definitions depending on who you ask. However, the underlying idea is to move away from the traditional architecture of cars, which relied on multiple mechanical components and electronic units from different suppliers. Instead, modern vehicles are being designed as integrated systems with centralized control units, known as “zonal computers,” that can handle a wide range of functions and features.
For example, a software-defined vehicle like the Rivian R1 Gen 2 Quad can recognize a driver using their digital key and automatically adjust settings such as seat position, climate control, and infotainment preferences within seconds. In the traditional model, achieving this level of integration would require coordination between multiple suppliers and lengthy development cycles, making it impractical for today’s consumer expectations.
The shift towards software-defined vehicles is not a new concept, as many pure-play car startups have been advocating for this approach for years. Legacy OEMs have also recognized the need to streamline their processes and reduce the number of electronic control units (ECUs) in their vehicles. As cars become increasingly complex and technology-driven, the industry as a whole is moving towards a more integrated and software-focused approach to vehicle design and development.
In conclusion, the divide between traditional OEMs and new tech-forward companies is driven by the changing demands of consumers and the need for more innovative solutions in the automotive industry. By embracing new technologies and partnerships, companies can position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving market where software and user experience are key differentiators. Ford CEO Jim Farley and Volkswagen had both recognized the need to reduce the number of Electronic Control Units (ECUs) in vehicles. Volkswagen’s attempt to do this on its own failed, leading them to seek a partnership with Rivian to tackle this complex issue.
Rivian CEO, RJ Scaringe, explained that the key to success in developing software-defined vehicles lies in taking a clean-sheet approach. This means starting from scratch and building a true, hard-coded operating system, rather than trying to patch up existing systems. Rivian’s approach involves designing the car around the electrical architecture and software, allowing for greater adaptability and evolution over time.
The joint venture between Rivian and Volkswagen is structured with Scaringe and Carsten Helbing as co-CEOs, with a technical team underneath them handling software engineering and electrical engineering. Scaringe focuses on the technical aspects, while Helbing manages operations and serves as the main interface with the Volkswagen Group.
Scaringe likened the car’s software to an operating system, with different expressions for each brand within the group. While the core capabilities and features are developed by the joint venture, customization hooks are provided for each brand to tailor the user experience to their own identity. This ensures that an Audi drives like an Audi and a Lamborghini has a unique interface, while still running on the same underlying operating system.
By streamlining the electrical architecture and software development process, Rivian and Volkswagen aim to reduce complexity and improve efficiency across their vehicle portfolios. This collaboration represents a shift in the automotive industry towards a more integrated and collaborative approach to software development, paving the way for more advanced and adaptable vehicles in the future. This collaboration allows us to scale our technology and impact on a global level. We see this as a unique opportunity to accelerate the electrification of vehicles worldwide. The joint venture with Volkswagen focuses solely on powering electric vehicles, aligning with Rivian’s mission to drive sustainable transportation solutions.
The first project under this partnership is the development of the ID.1, a mass-market electric vehicle priced under $25,000. This vehicle aims to democratize electric mobility and bring advanced technology to a wider consumer base. While the technology developed through this collaboration could potentially be adapted for hybrid or internal combustion engine vehicles in the future, the current focus remains on electric vehicles.
RV Tech, the entity formed through the joint venture, comprises around 1,500 employees. Initially, the team consisted of around 800-900 developers from Rivian and 50 individuals from the Volkswagen Group. The remaining employees were hired over the past 18 months to support the joint venture’s objectives. Despite coming from different backgrounds, all employees are now part of RV Tech, working towards a common goal.
As the Chief Software Officer at Rivian, I am responsible for ensuring that the company’s technology and culture are preserved and enhanced through the joint venture. While Rivian and Volkswagen may have different preferences and requirements, our focus is on building software that can adapt to various needs. For instance, while Rivian utilizes the Unreal Engine for graphics in the infotainment system, we also incorporate compatibility with other interfaces like CarPlay to accommodate potential differences in vehicle platforms.
The success of this partnership lies in our ability to integrate Rivian’s innovative technology with Volkswagen’s global reach and manufacturing capabilities. We have carefully studied past joint ventures to learn from both successful and unsuccessful models. The key factors that influenced our decision to collaborate with Volkswagen were the shared vision for electrification, the commitment to a transparent and cooperative partnership, and the potential for mutual growth and innovation.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Rivian and Volkswagen represents a unique and promising model in the automotive industry. By combining cutting-edge technology with a global manufacturing network, we aim to drive the adoption of electric vehicles and pave the way for a sustainable future in transportation. Rivian, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer, recently announced a groundbreaking licensing deal with Volkswagen Group, marking a significant milestone in the automotive industry. The collaboration is set to bring together software IP, electronics IP, and a unique culture from Rivian to the VW Group, with the goal of driving transformation and cultural change within the organization.
According to Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe, the discussions with VW CEO Oliver Blume emphasized the importance of maintaining the “Rivian way of doing things” throughout the partnership. This commitment to preserving Rivian’s processes and culture has been a key factor in the success of the collaboration, despite occasional tensions that arise from differing brand requirements.
One of the key components of the partnership is the integration of Rivian’s AI technology, including the Rivian Assistant, into VW Group vehicles. This innovative voice assistant allows for seamless interaction with various functions of the car, providing users with a unique and intuitive driving experience. The decision to develop their own AI platform, rather than relying on a third-party solution, reflects Rivian’s commitment to owning their destiny and providing customers with a customizable and adaptable system.
The Rivian Assistant has been met with positive feedback, with users noting its ability to seamlessly interact with different parts of the car and enhance the overall driving experience. However, there have been instances where the assistant is unable to perform certain functions, highlighting the complex nature of integrating AI technology into modern vehicles.
Overall, the Rivian-VW Group partnership represents a significant step forward in the automotive industry, showcasing the potential for collaboration between innovative companies to drive technological advancements and cultural change within traditional organizations. By combining Rivian’s expertise in software and electronics with VW Group’s global reach and market presence, the partnership is poised to revolutionize the way vehicles are designed, built, and operated in the future. The conversation between a driver and their car assistant can be quite revealing. In a recent exchange, the driver questioned the assistant about its limitations and capabilities, leading to a discussion about safety, design choices, and the intricacies of car technology.
The driver’s initial inquiry was met with a response from the assistant that it couldn’t disclose why certain functions were restricted but offered guidance on how to access a specific feature. This interaction shed light on the complexity of developing a car assistant that not only responds to user commands but also integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s systems.
The driver’s curiosity about the assistant’s decision-making process highlighted the importance of safety in the design of automotive technology. Certain features, such as wipers and highway assistance, are regulated for safety reasons, and the assistant is programmed to block access to these functions to prevent potential risks.
However, the conversation also touched on the assistant’s ability to interact with various sensors in the car, such as rear-seat sensors that detect the presence of passengers. While the driver found it amusing that the assistant could remind them about a child in the back seat, they also encountered a limitation when the assistant refused to disclose which sensor it was trying to access. This prompted a discussion about the challenges of accessing and integrating sensors in car technology and the balance between functionality and safety.
Ultimately, the conversation underscored the complexity of developing a car assistant that can effectively communicate with users, access vehicle functions, and prioritize safety. As technology continues to advance, car manufacturers will need to navigate these challenges to create seamless and intuitive experiences for drivers. The beauty of the internal, in-house orchestration layer that has been built for the Rivian Assistant lies in the multitude of guardrails that are in place to control which functions are exposed by the assistant. This allows for a seamless and efficient user experience, where only the most relevant and useful functions are made accessible.
In a recent interview, Rivian’s Chief Software Officer discussed the shift towards voice as the primary interface for interacting with cars. While traditional buttons may have been the norm in the past, the advancement of technology has paved the way for a more intuitive and conversational experience. With the use of foundational models, drivers can now interact with their cars using natural language, making the interaction more human-like and efficient.
One of the key advancements in this area is the integration of agentic frameworks, such as the Google Calendar integration with the Rivian Assistant. By leveraging this technology, users can seamlessly connect their digital ecosystem to their car, allowing for a more personalized and integrated experience. The agentic integration not only streamlines the user experience but also allows for context sharing and multiple integrations within the car.
The agentic framework opens up a world of possibilities for future integrations and functionalities. By aggregating and connecting various apps through this framework, users can enjoy a unified experience across different platforms. This level of integration enables users to perform a wide range of tasks, from planning trips to setting reminders and even controlling smart home devices, all through the Rivian Assistant.
The deep integration of agentic frameworks raises questions about where the logic of ambient computing resides. While the idea of interacting with a car or smart device may seem unconventional, the seamless integration of AI and machine learning technologies allows for a more intuitive and efficient user experience. As technology continues to evolve, the boundaries between different devices and platforms will continue to blur, creating a more seamless and interconnected digital ecosystem. The idea of talking to your car or having a virtual assistant in your vehicle may seem like something out of a sci-fi movie, but for Rivian, it’s a reality. The Rivian Assistant is a unique feature that sets their vehicles apart from the competition. In a recent interview, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe discussed the development of the Rivian Assistant and how it fits into their overall vision for the future of automotive technology.
Scaringe explained that the Rivian Assistant is not just a voice-controlled interface like Apple’s Siri or Google Assistant. Instead, it is an “agent orchestrator” that can deeply integrate with the vehicle controls and operating system. This means that the Rivian Assistant has a deeper understanding of the vehicle’s functions and safety protocols, allowing it to make informed decisions about how to interact with the driver. Additionally, the Rivian Assistant has the ability to connect with other agents and chatbots, opening up a world of possibilities for future integrations.
One of the key aspects of the Rivian Assistant is its use of AI technology, which is uniquely developed for Rivian vehicles. While other automakers may eventually adopt similar technologies, the Rivian Assistant is currently exclusive to Rivian vehicles. However, Scaringe mentioned that they are in discussions to potentially license similar technologies to the Volkswagen Group in the future.
One of the challenges of implementing a virtual assistant in a vehicle is ensuring a seamless and responsive user experience, especially when it comes to voice commands. Scaringe addressed this concern by highlighting the use of LTE connectivity in Rivian vehicles. While the current models use LTE, the upcoming R2 model will feature 5G connectivity, providing faster and more reliable communication with the cloud. Additionally, the R2 will have powerful edge AI capabilities, allowing for local processing of voice commands and reducing latency in interactions with the driver.
When asked about the cost implications of adding AI technology to Rivian vehicles, Scaringe emphasized that RJ (presumably referring to himself) prioritizes long-term vision over short-term costs. He explained that the decision to invest in higher inference compute and memory for the Rivian Assistant was a strategic choice to position Rivian as a leader in automotive technology. By performing more interactions locally in the car, Rivian can reduce connectivity costs and avoid cloud inference costs, ultimately leading to a more efficient and cost-effective user experience.
Overall, the development of the Rivian Assistant represents a significant step forward in the integration of AI technology into vehicles. With its unique features and capabilities, the Rivian Assistant is poised to revolutionize the way drivers interact with their cars and pave the way for a more intelligent and intuitive driving experience.
CarPlay is definitely a feature that we are exploring and considering for future Rivian models. We understand the importance of seamless connectivity between your car and your devices, and CarPlay offers a great solution for integrating your smartphone with your vehicle’s infotainment system. We want to ensure that our customers have the best possible experience when using their devices in the car, and CarPlay could be a valuable addition to our lineup.
That’s great to hear. I think a lot of people would appreciate having that seamless integration. Now, looking ahead, what advancements do you see on the horizon for Rivian’s AI technology and its integration into future models?
We are constantly innovating and exploring new ways to enhance our AI technology and its integration into our vehicles. One area of focus is improving the natural language processing capabilities of Rivian Assistant to make interactions with the car even more intuitive and seamless. We are also looking into expanding the range of services and functions that Rivian Assistant can offer, providing drivers with even more convenience and assistance on the road.
Additionally, we are exploring ways to leverage AI for advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving features. We believe that AI has the potential to revolutionize the automotive industry and are committed to staying at the forefront of these developments. Overall, we see a bright future for AI technology at Rivian and are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive space.
Thank you for sharing your insights. It’s clear that Rivian is at the cutting edge of AI technology in the automotive industry, and it’s exciting to see the advancements you are making. We look forward to seeing how Rivian continues to innovate and lead the way in this space.