All eyes have been on software company Rivian, lately, with concerns that they might not be able to survive financially during a crucial time in which it tries to move from its R1 lineup into its R2 future.
Commentators have stated this could be the businesses’ Tesla Model Y moment, but the company has just announced a huge new partnership deal that could change the face of EV software.
Partnership with Volkswagen
Rivian has just announced that it’s entering into a partnership with Volkswagen and that the two entities have agreed that VW will use Rivian’s software and electrical platforms in all of its future electric vehicles. The deal, expected to last several years, will see Rivian earn something in the region of $5 billion from the German car manufacturer.
The deal is expected to be popular amongst buyers searching for the very best and latest in EV cars and will allow both companies to join forces and not only reduce the cost per vehicle but to find ways to enhance IT innovation in EVs across the world. It’s believed that Rivian’s in-market zonal hardware design will act as the basis for all future SDV developments and that the company also plans to contribute its expertise in electrical architecture and license intellectual property rights to its venture.
Could Rivian rival Google and Apple?
There are whispers within the industry that this could spell a huge win for EV owners as Rivian is seen as the only realistic rival to Tesla in terms of the software platforms they develop for cars. Right up until this partnership, almost all EV company software platforms were proprietary and exclusive and insiders are watching carefully to see how the agreement will play out, with some forecasting they have the potential to develop an operating system for electric vehicles that works universally, in the same way Apple and Google have made themselves the operating kings in terms of smartphone technology.
If Rivian manages to gain headway with this project it could well become the first universal software platform for EVs, which would be a massive headline and see the industry change for the better. The opportunity is there for the taking and it’s hoped they can make a success out of it so that EVs become a more reliable and potentially affordable prospect for all drivers over the next decade.
