Rivian and Volkswagen Explore Licensing EV Tech to Other Automakers, Including ICE Vehicles
Rivian (RIVN) and Volkswagen (VWAGY) are considering selling their jointly developed electric vehicle technology to other automakers, potentially extending the architecture to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The collaboration, formed through the RV Tech joint venture, focuses on a zonal electronic architecture and software-defined vehicle (SDV) platform capable of over-the-air updates for advanced driving and infotainment features.
Volkswagen's $5.8 billion investment in Rivian underscores its strategic push to compete with Tesla and Chinese EV manufacturers amid challenges like U.S. tariffs and weak demand in key markets. The partnership aims to accelerate innovation while monetizing IP through third-party licensing.