The R2 will share a second-generation technology platform with the R1 siblings, which were extensively updated last year to be easier to manage and update in future.
Rivian’s cutting-edge approach to softwaredefi ned vehicles consolidates the platform’s ECUs into a smaller number of them across three distinct zones.
This system is also being used by the Volkswagen Group as part of a near $6 billion deal, and a version of it will appear first in the ID 1 and related models in 2026.
“The technology platform has become very, very robust and very scalable and has the benefi t of a lot of volume against it, not just from our two [cars] but also from the ID 1 and through the whole portfolio of Volkswagen Group products,” said Scaringe.
“It’s giving us the sourcing leverage we never had before, but importantly we’re really pushing the boundaries on how much we can optimise on cost, on in-vehicle experience and how we integrate and optimise around a high level of artificial intelligence.”
Scaringe said that while the Volkswagen Group deal presented huge opportunities and advantages to the technology side of the business, it wouldn’t limit Rivian’s own lofty manufacturing ambitions.
