Rivian, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has dedicated nearly two years to developing its own artificial intelligence assistant, positioned to enhance user experience within their vehicles. The approach taken by the initiative is a testament to just how fast AI technology is advancing, with companies in every sector scrambling to adopt state-of-the-art solutions. Few companies make as much of their own custom software as Rivian. They’ve built the bulk of their AI software stack in-house, including proprietary models as well as an orchestration layer that ensures smooth interaction between various AI functions.
The company’s move is happening as the big foundational AI companies are leading some of the most rapid innovations. Rivian’s approach gives a glimpse of its seriousness about ensuring it can compete in this rapidly changing market. Through the new partnerships, Rivian is looking to accelerate its own in-house development. Together, they’re embedding targeted agentic AI capabilities across its platform.
Loaded with the maker’s ATV killer Rivian’s software chief, Wassym Bensaid, stressed how complete their in-vehicle platform goes. “And that’s the in-vehicle platform we have built,” he stated, highlighting the extensive resources devoted to improving the software stack. This stack provides access and transparency across the board with RTOS that govern key consumer-facing functions. That is reflected in everything from thermal dynamics to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and safety technology. It brings in a whole other layer specifically for the infotainment system.
At the same time, the AI assistant is a combination of different models specialized to be most effective at various tasks. Bensaid articulated their architectural vision, saying, “We use what the industry loves to now call an agentic framework, but we thought about that architecture since very early so that we can interface with different models.” This framework provides the flexibility and adaptability needed as Rivian works to fine-tune its AI capabilities.
Rivian’s assertion that they’re going all-in on artificial intelligence. This focus fits perfectly with its sprawling tech joint venture with Volkswagen, called Traton, that was finalized in November 2018. This multi-billion dollar partnership is dedicated to developing next generation electrical architecture and software for the entire Volkswagen Group. They plan to have these innovations implemented by 2027. The joint venture highlights Rivian’s positioning as a competitive player in the automotive technology space, especially as they work to scale their software.
The company was additionally in the midst of a major refresh of its original R1T truck and R1S SUV for 2024. This update was a big overhaul of several moving parts. It also completely reworked the battery pack, suspension system, electrical architecture, sensor stack and software user interface. These improvements reflect Rivian’s dedication to providing the latest technology and guaranteeing an exceptional driving experience.
Currently, Rivian’s AI assistant team operates from the company’s Palo Alto office. For what it’s worth, Bensaid has made public aspirations for bringing his AI assistant to consumers as early as this year’s end. Autonomy and AI are still distinct priorities within the company’s charge ahead development plans. Bensaid is optimistic about reconciling traditional labor with pro-labor climate policy going forward.