Born just a year ago, Rivian and VW Group Technologies (RV Tech), a joint venture formed by the American electric vehicle and technology company and the largest European manufacturer, to accelerate the development of the automotive sector, is already working on preparing the testing program for the new software-defined vehicle (SDV) platform. Established in November 2024, to develop an electronic architecture for future models, RV Tech combines the expertise and digital skills of Rivian and VW, and works with powerful computational tools and command centers that manage all vehicle functions and allow for updates of all systems throughout their respective life cycles.
RV Tech aims, above all, to achieve significant progress in the fields of automated driving and infotainment systems, two areas where remote updates over-the-air (OTA) are particularly important due to their undeniable potential to enhance the user experience. In this regard, RV Tech is preparing models for VW, Skoda, and Audi (all brands of the German conglomerate) based on the SDV architecture, to be tested starting in the first quarter of 2026, as, although the hardware and software were defined in the spring, it is necessary to validate their performance under demanding weather conditions.
Among the beneficiaries of the SDV is the VW ID.Every1, expected for 2027, a model that will be produced at the Autoeuropa factory in Palmela. Subsequently, the consortium plans to implement this electronic architecture in electric vehicles based on the SSP platform, which it aims to strengthen the range by the end of the decade. The joint-venture is also working with all the brands in the group to allow for tailored digital developments, aiming for the German manufacturer to achieve volumes of around 30 million units/year.
Rivian, on the other hand, intends to leverage the technologies resulting from the partnership in the three new 100% electric models it has on its agenda: R2, R3, and R3X. In parallel with these developments, RV Tech is increasing its research potential by investing in an international team that already has more than 1500 employees worldwide, particularly in Palo Alto, USA, and Berlin, Germany.
“The partnership with Rivian demonstrates how the VW Group envisions and realizes progress: focus on the customer, speed, and precision,” says Oliver Blume. “We are developing the new architecture very quickly. In collaboration with our brands, we have created, in just twelve months, the technological foundation for a much more digital driving experience, and at affordable prices. We will change all the benchmarks in the field of mobility,” assured the CEO of the VW Group.
