Prime Highlights-
- Rivian plans to develop its own lidar sensors to improve self-driving technology
- Company invests heavily in custom chips to strengthen its autonomous vehicle capabilities
Key Facts-
- Rivian is an electric vehicle maker focused on building advanced and connected vehicle technology
- The company has committed hundreds of millions of dollars to its custom chip program, with RAP-1 set to launch soon
Background-
Rivian is planning to develop its own lidar sensors, possibly with Chinese partners, to improve its self-driving technology. The move would give the company more control over key components in its autonomous vehicles.
Chief Executive Officer RJ Scaringe indicated that the company is exploring ways to locally produce lidar technology while leveraging advancements made by Chinese suppliers. He noted that most affordable and advanced lidar solutions currently come from China, particularly in the lower price range required for mass-market vehicles.
Rivian plans to introduce lidar sensors in select versions of its upcoming R2 models. These sensors help vehicles see their surroundings in 3D, making driving safer and easier. Rivian is steering away from the bulky spinning lidar units seen in some robotaxis, instead looking at smaller, solid-state designs built for everyday vehicles.
Instead of directly sourcing components, Rivian is evaluating options to build manufacturing capacity in the United States, potentially through joint ventures. The company is also in talks with multiple lidar firms. It is also in talks with other automakers about working together to grow production and cut reliance on overseas supply chains.
At the same time, Rivian is investing heavily in its custom chip program to support autonomous driving. The company has committed hundreds of millions of dollars to the effort. Its first chip, RAP-1, is set to launch in the coming months. Future versions, including RAP-2 and RAP-3, are in development.
Together, the focus on sensors and chips shows Rivian’s long-term plan to compete in the autonomous vehicle space.
