TechCrunch Mobility: Rivian’s Survival Plan Involves More Than Cars
Senior reporter Sean O’Kane recently attended Rivian’s Autonomy & AI Day in Palo Alto, where the company showcased its plans for expansion beyond its core business of selling electric vehicles.
However, it’s clear that Rivian is building a company that goes beyond just selling cars, with a focus on developing advanced driver assistance systems and other revenue-generating products.
Meanwhile, the company has also been working on its own custom 5nm processor, which will power its upgraded automated-driving system, set to debut in the R2 SUV in late 2026.
Rivian’s AI Assistant and Autonomous Future
At the event, Rivian revealed its plans to build its own AI assistant, which will come to its EVs in early 2026, and also showcased its custom silicon and lidar technology.
Moreover, the company hinted at its plans to offer robotaxis services, which could be a significant new revenue stream for the company.
Consequently, Rivian’s focus on autonomy and AI is not just about building a better car, but about creating a new business model that can generate significant revenue.
Licensing its Tech to Others
Furthermore, Rivian has already started exploring licensing its technology to other companies, including its joint venture with Volkswagen Group to share its electrical architecture and base-level software.
Additionally, the company has spun out two startups this year, Also and Mind Robotics, which could potentially use Rivian’s technology in their own products.
Therefore, it’s clear that Rivian is looking to build a business that can generate significant revenue beyond just selling cars.
Other News and Deals
In other news, aircraft startup Boom Supersonic has raised $300 million to commercialize its stationary power plant business, which will use its turbine engine to generate power for data centers.
Meanwhile, self-driving trucks company Aurora Innovation has made a commercial agreement with Detmar Logistics to autonomously transport frac sand in the Permian Basin.
Moreover, Vatn Systems, a Rhode Island-based startup developing autonomous underwater vehicles, has raised $60 million in a Series A funding round led by BVVC.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rivian’s focus on autonomy and AI is not just about building a better car, but about creating a new business model that can generate significant revenue.
Therefore, investors and industry leaders should take note of Rivian’s plans and watch for further developments in the coming months.
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