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Volkswagen–Rivian JV Advances With ID.1 Prototypes Testing in California

Volkswagen aims to rebuild its software stack by standardizing Rivian’s zonal architecture across future EVs.

Overview

  • Engineering prototypes of the Volkswagen ID.1 are testing at RV Tech sites in Palo Alto and Irvine, with the compact slated to debut the new software in a 2027 launch.
  • Group-wide winter validation of the co-developed systems on Volkswagen, Audi and Scout prototypes is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026.
  • Volkswagen will deploy Rivian’s zonal architecture and software stack across future models on its Scalable Systems Platform, with initial VW Group electrical architectures completed.
  • The joint venture has grown to more than 1,500 employees across the United States, Canada, Sweden, Serbia and Germany, operating from a headquarters in Palo Alto.
  • Funding milestones remain on track as Rivian reports JV-related software revenue, with two $1 billion tranches received and additional equity and a loan expected in 2026, and the JV’s co-CEO says the architecture could eventually extend to combustion models.