Rivian’s Next-Generation Vehicles to Take on Tesla with New Network Architecture
Rivian’s Next-Generation Vehicles to Take on Tesla with New Network Architecture
Will Rivian’s new network architecture make them a formidable competitor to Tesla?
RJ Scaringe, the founder of electric startup Rivian, reveals that the brand’s upcoming vehicles will benefit from a new network architecture that will lower costs and allow them to compete with Tesla.
RJ Scaringe, the founder of Rivian, expressed his excitement about the company’s upcoming models, referred to as R2, and their aggressive cost targets. The goal is to achieve a 60% reduction in the number of ECUs in the vehicles, which will result in a 25% reduction in wiring harness length. This reduction in components and wiring will not only lower production costs but also position Rivian to rival Tesla’s Model Y in terms of price.
The highly anticipated R2S compact SUV is set to be unveiled in early 2024, showcasing the brand’s signature boxy styling. However, the actual launch of the vehicle is scheduled for 2026. With a price range of approximately $40,000 to $60,000, the R2S aims to offer a competitive option in the market.
Rivian’s strategy includes building its own components instead of relying on multiple suppliers. This approach will give the company more control over the vehicle’s electronic control units (ECUs) and enable them to link those functions to specific areas of the vehicle, such as the front, middle, and rear. By streamlining the network architecture and reducing reliance on external suppliers, Rivian can enhance the overall performance and reliability of its vehicles.
The current network architecture of the R1 models has already undergone 22 major over-the-air updates. However, according to Scaringe, this process has been challenging due to the complexity of coordinating with multiple companies involved in the software platform and stack. The new network architecture will simplify this process, allowing for smoother software updates in the future.
Rivian has also developed its own in-house Enduro powertrain, which debuted on the Rivian EDV commercial van. The company recently started producing Enduro motors for the R1 models as well. With the implementation of the new network architecture and the Enduro powertrain, Rivian aims to reduce production costs and potentially lower the pricing of its existing R1T and R1S models in the future.
- Rivian’s next-generation vehicles will have aggressive cost targets
- The new network architecture will reduce the number of ECUs and wiring harness length in the vehicles
- Rivian plans to reveal the R2S compact SUV in early 2024
- Rivian will build its own components to consolidate ECU functions
- The new network architecture will also be implemented on the existing R1 models in 2024
Rivian’s upcoming R2 models will benefit from a new network architecture, resulting in lower production costs and increased competitiveness against Tesla. The R2S compact SUV, set to be revealed in early 2024, will showcase the brand’s unique design language. By building their own components and streamlining the network architecture, Rivian aims to have better control over its vehicles and offer improved performance and reliability.
