Buzz Grows Around Rivian Stock as VW-Backed EV Software Set for Winter Trials Next Year

Estimated read time 4 min read

• Recent updates from RV Tech indicate promising advancements in its scalable EV software platform, as winter testing kicks off for VW, Audi, and Scout vehicles slated for early 2026.

• Volkswagen has confirmed that upcoming electric vehicles will utilize Rivian’s zonal architecture, with the ID. EVERY1 planned for production by 2027.

• Users on Stocktwits are drawing attention to Rivian’s overarching tech opportunities, especially given the timing created by Tesla’s Model Y revisions right before the R2 is launched.

On Wednesday, online discussions about Rivian surged following a joint announcement from the company and Volkswagen about RV Tech’s first-year developments. This partnership is crucial for rolling out an electrical and software platform for EVs, which Volkswagen believes is necessary to stay competitive with Tesla and other players in the market.

Building a Scalable Platform

RV Tech has reported solid movements in creating its EV electrical and software platform, aimed at delivering vehicles for both partner companies. They also mentioned they are keeping lines of communication open with other industry players to bolster scalability, as noted by Bloomberg.

Wassym Bensaid, Rivian’s software lead and co-chair of RV Tech, expressed that the initiative addresses issues within the broader automotive landscape and opens avenues for potential revenue generation through tech licensing. He remarked that earnings from these licensing activities could entail a very different profit margin compared to traditional vehicle manufacturing.

This platform is structured for adaptability, spanning various vehicle types and segments in Western markets.

Winter Tests Scheduled for 2026

According to RV Tech, they’ll kick off winter testing in early 2026 for models from Audi, Volkswagen, and Scout. Volkswagen has mentioned that it, too, will assess performance under chilly conditions for its EV line-up during this time frame, according to an EV report.

Volkswagen also shared that ID.1 prototypes are already being tested at RV Tech facilities located in Palo Alto and Irvine, California. The ID.1 is set to be the first Volkswagen using the new software system, with production timed for 2027.

Volkswagen Confirms Adoption of Rivian’s Technology in Future EVs

Volkswagen has confirmed it will leverage Rivian’s zonal architecture and software solution for future electric vehicles. The Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) is anticipated to extend to around 30 million vehicles from various Volkswagen Group brands across different market segments.

This venture pairs engineers and developers from both firms, employing Rivian’s centralized electronics layout that uses fewer computing units. This strategy, as stated by Volkswagen, is designed to streamline development processes and cut costs.

Upcoming Vehicle Launch Schedule

The inaugural vehicle expected to roll out using this new software platform is Rivian’s R2 SUV, hitting the market early next year. Following that, Volkswagen’s compact ID. EVERY1, with a price tag around 20,000 euros, is set for release in 2027, with additional Scout vehicles queued after that.

Stocktwits Traders Make Comparative Observations

Retail sentiment for Rivian on Stocktwits has been described as ‘extremely bullish’ amid soaring message interactions.

RIVN sentiment and message volume as of November 12 | Source: Stocktwits
RIVN sentiment and message volume as of November 12 | Source: Stocktwits

One Stocktwits user noted that the joint update from Volkswagen and Rivian shifted their perception of Rivian, suggesting that Volkswagen could leverage their technology for both gasoline and electric vehicles. They mentioned that although many still perceive Rivian simply as an automaker, its role has the potential to extend beyond that, likening it to how investors view Tesla.

Another user highlighted that Tesla’s Model Y enhancements prior to Rivian’s R2 unveiling might work in Rivian’s favor, arguing that it provides a chance to differentiate the R2 by adding unique features.

Rivian’s stock has surged by 32% this year, showcasing significant market enthusiasm.

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