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Rivian is playing a big role in simplifying EVs
The partnership will be led by Rivian’s Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, and Carsten Helbing, the CTO of the Volkswagen Group. Everything will initially be based in Palo Alto, California, although the group plans to open three more locations in North America and Europe.
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Rivian has done a pretty good job at simplifying the complicated architecture of automotive electronics. Their second-generation Rivian R1 reduced the number of ECUs from 17 to just seven, reducing miles of cables and making potential repairs much easier.
The partnership’s new architecture will trickle down to other brands and models
Combining VW’s decades of knowledge with Rivian’s latest EV breakthroughs, the two companies will reportedly develop “the next-generation electric architecture and best-in-class software technology for both companies’ future electric vehicles, all of which cover relevant vehicle segments, including subcompact cars. “
VW plans to eventually bring this new architecture to the other brands in their portfolio, with Audi, Scout and Porsche the first to benefit. They also mentioned that Cariad will still play a role in their software strategy.
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Final thoughts
Hopefully Rivian is the knight in shining armor that VW was looking for. It would be a shame to see such a legendary player in the automotive world faltered by the impending switch to electric cars.
As for Rivian, their SUV and pickup have been unique additions to the market since the beginning. Getting so much capital and exposure from a major brand like VW will undoubtedly do wonders for the company and we look forward to their future innovations, regardless of powertrain.
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