TechCrunch Mobility: Rivian’s survival plan involves more than cars

The article covers Rivian’s recent “Autonomy & AI Day” event, highlighting the company’s strategic shift toward building a business that extends beyond just manufacturing electric vehicles. Rivian is developing advanced driver-assistance technologies, including a hands-free system currently usable on about 135,000 miles of road, which will expand to 3.5 million miles and include surface streets by early 2026. This system will be offered as a paid feature, costing $2,500 upfront or $49.99 monthly. Additionally, Rivian is working on a more advanced hands-off, eyes-off autonomous driving system powered by a custom 5nm processor developed in collaboration with Arm and TSMC, set to debut in the R2 SUV in late 2026. Beyond vehicle sales and software, Rivian is exploring diversified revenue streams through technology licensing and spin-off ventures. The company already has a joint venture with Volkswagen Group to share electrical architecture and software, and it has spun out startups focused on