RJ Scaringe Interview on the Rivian R2, R3, R3X & Beyond! | by The InEVitable

[kanundrum]

Sponsored

 

[Riviot]

Tldl?

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

"The world is not ready" because not enough manufacturers are building what people want, at prices they can afford. And there aren't enough charging opportunities for everyone. All of which Rivian is working to solve.

 

[SteveInBend]

Can I get the Cliff's notes?

 

[COdogman]

Can I get a paper transcript mailed to me?

 

[ndmiller]

Great forthcoming interview about how he thinks about SO many Rivian things. Had to watch in a couple sections but interesting stuff.

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

Can I get a paper transcript mailed to me?

Yes, but only in Comic Sans set at 6 pts.

 

[RIV206]

Really cool interview.

Also, sounds like upcoming Halloween mode is going to be epic

 

[CharonPDX]

Can I get a paper transcript mailed to me?

Hang on, I will telegraph you the transcript post haste.

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

Tldl?

Can I get the Cliff's notes?

I started to, but there is just way too much stuff here to unpack and summarize. The summary itself would be a novel. Plus there are many tangents, and even the tangents are full of BTS tidbits... Honestly, just set aside some time and listen at 1.5X.

 

[CharonPDX]

I'm having AI reformat the YouTube transcript now. I'll post the AI-generated summary in a bit.

 

[CharonPDX]

Here you go, AI-generated summary:
(I have done zero checking of anything in this summary. Although humorously, I do see that the AI did correct multiple transcript misspellings of Rivian to "Rivia" back to the proper Rivian.)

RJ Scaringe, CEO of Rivian, believes electric vehicles are inevitable due to growing consumer demand, supportive policies, and advancements in infrastructure. Despite a slowdown in sales growth, Scaringe remains optimistic about the future of electric vehicles, especially as more choices become available under $50,000. Scaringe also highlights the excitement surrounding Rivian’s upcoming R2 and R3 models, which offer a unique and appealing option for enthusiasts.

Rivan’s R2 and R3 vehicles will have a more affordable price point while still delivering on the brand’s on-road and off-road capabilities. The company has made decisions to simplify the vehicles’ architecture and interior, reducing complexity and cost without compromising on performance. Rivan aims to differentiate its products from competitors by offering unique features and capabilities, such as the ability to go off-road, which sets them apart from vehicles like the Model Y.

Rivian’s R2 and R3 platforms are designed for midsize vehicles with various applications. The company is considering an R2x performance version and an R1x based on the R2 platform. Rivian’s Gen 2 platform has more headroom and uses Nvidia’s Drive Orin platform, providing significant cost savings and improved autonomy capabilities.

Rivian’s self-driving system utilizes a dual-computer setup, with one dedicated to self-driving and the other to infotainment. The company is considering developing its own chips but is currently focused on leveraging the Nvidia platform due to its well-developed ecosystem and performance. Rivian’s infotainment system uses an Android kernel with a custom real-time operating system, allowing for a rich ecosystem of applications and a more personalized user experience.

Rivian’s vehicles will incorporate AI-driven features, including conversational navigation and predictive diagnostics. The company believes that digital ecosystems will emerge for China and the rest of the world, with different characteristics and requirements. Rivian’s partnership with Volkswagen aims to leverage digital ecosystems and efficiency gains, with a focus on China-specific vehicles and rest-of-world vehicles.

The founder of Rivian emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique digital ecosystem in China, where Western companies must adapt to local customer expectations. Despite the potential for growth in China, Rivian is still evaluating its entry into the market due to intense competition and a complex regulatory environment. Rivian is focused on expanding into Europe and the United States, while considering partnerships and opportunities in other regions.

Rivian’s R1 vehicle has received positive feedback for its connected and human-centric design, despite its high price. The company is focusing on developing R2, a more affordable model, while considering potential features like a removable roof and a longer version. Rivian is also working on a native NAX charger and exploring the possibility of a 1,250 horsepower quad motor for R1.

Rivian plans to stagger the launch of R2 and R3 vehicles to reduce customer frustration and improve profitability. The company is considering subscription models for software-based features, but believes customers prefer to pay upfront for features with ongoing engineering costs. Rivian is developing a bidirectional DC charger for R2 vehicles, which will allow for faster charging and power transfer to homes.

Rivan’s CEO discusses the company’s decision to sell directly to consumers, avoiding the traditional dealer model. He acknowledges Tesla’s role in making electric vehicles more appealing and credits them with helping to create a market for electric vehicles. Rivan’s CEO also reveals that the company initially planned to launch with a sports car but pivoted to focus on more mass-market vehicles after realizing that strategy had already been done by Tesla.

 

[Riviot]

Here you go, AI-generated summary:
(I have done zero checking of anything in this summary. Although humorously, I do see that the AI did correct multiple transcript misspellings of Rivian to "Rivia" back to the proper Rivian.)

RJ Scaringe, CEO of Rivian, believes electric vehicles are inevitable due to growing consumer demand, supportive policies, and advancements in infrastructure. Despite a slowdown in sales growth, Scaringe remains optimistic about the future of electric vehicles, especially as more choices become available under $50,000. Scaringe also highlights the excitement surrounding Rivian’s upcoming R2 and R3 models, which offer a unique and appealing option for enthusiasts.

Rivan’s R2 and R3 vehicles will have a more affordable price point while still delivering on the brand’s on-road and off-road capabilities. The company has made decisions to simplify the vehicles’ architecture and interior, reducing complexity and cost without compromising on performance. Rivan aims to differentiate its products from competitors by offering unique features and capabilities, such as the ability to go off-road, which sets them apart from vehicles like the Model Y.

Rivian’s R2 and R3 platforms are designed for midsize vehicles with various applications. The company is considering an R2x performance version and an R1x based on the R2 platform. Rivian’s Gen 2 platform has more headroom and uses Nvidia’s Drive Orin platform, providing significant cost savings and improved autonomy capabilities.

Rivian’s self-driving system utilizes a dual-computer setup, with one dedicated to self-driving and the other to infotainment. The company is considering developing its own chips but is currently focused on leveraging the Nvidia platform due to its well-developed ecosystem and performance. Rivian’s infotainment system uses an Android kernel with a custom real-time operating system, allowing for a rich ecosystem of applications and a more personalized user experience.

Rivian’s vehicles will incorporate AI-driven features, including conversational navigation and predictive diagnostics. The company believes that digital ecosystems will emerge for China and the rest of the world, with different characteristics and requirements. Rivian’s partnership with Volkswagen aims to leverage digital ecosystems and efficiency gains, with a focus on China-specific vehicles and rest-of-world vehicles.

The founder of Rivian emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique digital ecosystem in China, where Western companies must adapt to local customer expectations. Despite the potential for growth in China, Rivian is still evaluating its entry into the market due to intense competition and a complex regulatory environment. Rivian is focused on expanding into Europe and the United States, while considering partnerships and opportunities in other regions.

Rivian’s R1 vehicle has received positive feedback for its connected and human-centric design, despite its high price. The company is focusing on developing R2, a more affordable model, while considering potential features like a removable roof and a longer version. Rivian is also working on a native NAX charger and exploring the possibility of a 1,250 horsepower quad motor for R1.

Rivian plans to stagger the launch of R2 and R3 vehicles to reduce customer frustration and improve profitability. The company is considering subscription models for software-based features, but believes customers prefer to pay upfront for features with ongoing engineering costs. Rivian is developing a bidirectional DC charger for R2 vehicles, which will allow for faster charging and power transfer to homes.

Rivan’s CEO discusses the company’s decision to sell directly to consumers, avoiding the traditional dealer model. He acknowledges Tesla’s role in making electric vehicles more appealing and credits them with helping to create a market for electric vehicles. Rivan’s CEO also reveals that the company initially planned to launch with a sports car but pivoted to focus on more mass-market vehicles after realizing that strategy had already been done by Tesla.

Ok now translate it to Russian, then back to English, and post it on Jalopnik.

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

Some notable tidbits, not all... with paraphrasing.

Called out other manufacturers (not by name) for their "no demand excuse" on EVs. Identified lack of choice being the real problem; types of cars, different price points, etc.. Later on in conversation, touched on how almost all existing options use the Model Y as the benchmark (because of its success). Consequently all of the alternative options end up being just like the Y, just with different packaging and badge.

Without air suspension, R2 loses some breadth of capability that R1 has. But it will still be very good; just not as extreme.

MT: If you had to do it again, would you still put that expensive suspension in the R1?
RJ: Absolutely. If you took all the performance out of a 911, and everything that makes a car a Porsche, because people don't actually need it, would it still be a Porsche?

R3 has 220mm of ground clearance. Tri-motor performance will be insane. It will get cross-shopped against surprising things (exotics).

Moving away from MobileEye for autonomy (presumably Gen2).

Autonomy development is not part of JV with VW.

@ MB G-wagen event, Lieberman asked MB engineers what vehicles they benchmarked for their electric G. MB engineers said they sampled a lot and all of them were crap, except for one: Rivian. They were very impressed by the air suspension. Considered doing the same on the G.

@ Land Rover Sport event, Lieberman asked similar question of LR chief engineer. He couldn't "believe how good the (Lieberman expected "Rivian is off-road") interior is". Quality of the interior, for a first-time car manufacturer, blew them away.

RJ: We very consciously aim to create products that feel connected to the customer. Not letting the process be algorithmic. "The moment it becomes algorithmic, it looses that human element". We're not creating a spreadsheet of features just because we are trying to compete with something else. The flashlight isn't necessary and is extra cost. But it adds value to owners' user experience.

Viewer: "Can we expect a native texting app soon?"
RJ [with no hesitation]: "Yes."

Viewer: Will there be additional climate control zones?
RJ: Yes. It's coming. 2nd-row will be split in two. In the R1S, 3rd will link to 2nd (i.e. left to left, right to right).

Various viewers: Any plans to make X-Y-Z variants of R1, R2 or R3? Including removable roof (RJ's own father wants this)... Or, camper van?
RJ: There's no shortage of exciting ideas. But, right now the most important thing in front of us is getting R2 to market.

Viewer: Is native NACS still a go?
RJ: Yes, moving ahead as planned. What happened at Tesla only changed its expansion trajectory. Supercharger remain the best and largest network. Side note, adapter distribution is slower than planned but continuing forward.

RJ: R2 launch window is still first half of '26

Viewers: Why aren't reservations open for R3?
RJ: We've had a lot of internal debates about it. We learned much from R1—the long waits, the pain that caused customers and how difficult it was to launch the van, R1T and R1S at the same time (and huge backlog of demand). It would have been easier to break the three into more manageable staggered launches. Moving forward, we are striving to be more methodical. To keep time between placement-of-order and delivery shorter.

Viewer: Will Compass Yellow come back?
RJ: No, but we have some really cool new colors coming.

Viewer: When will we get bi-directional charging?
RJ: There are lots of misconceptions about the topic. Gen1 and 2 already allow DC bi-directional. But for a house to use that power, a box is needed to convert DC to AC. Rivian is developing that box. More to come. This box is being developed in Torrance, CA. R2 will have a on-board bi-directional AC charger, but because of packaging limitations, it won't be enough to power a house.

Viewer: Did Tesla make things easier or harder?
RJ: Regardless of how anyone feels about them, "one has to give them full credit for making EVs cool". Back then people immediately thought of golf carts when asked about EVs. Tesla did an amazing job to disprove that.
Lieberman: Back when Model S made Car Of The Year, he asked then CEO of Audi for his thoughts, "it's pretty cool". Lieberman put that in print and it got the CEO in trouble at VW.

 

[kanundrum]

via @rivntrackr

The Inevitable Shift to Electric Vehicles

Scaringe begins by expressing his belief in the inevitable shift towards EVs as the dominant form of transportation. He recalls the skepticism Rivian faced in its early days, particularly regarding the potential of EVs in the SUV and truck segments. Despite the challenges, Scaringe highlights the significant growth in EV adoption and emphasizes the critical role of customer demand, supportive policies, and infrastructure development in accelerating this transition.

Rivian’s Upcoming Models: R2, R3, and R3X

The discussion then shifts to Rivian’s future lineup, focusing on the R2 and R3 models, which aim to cater to different market segments and price points. Scaringe explains that the R2 is designed to be more accessible, targeting a price point under $50,000, while still maintaining Rivian’s hallmark on-road and off-road capabilities. The R2, similar in size to a Tesla Model Y, will feature a simplified architecture, including struts and passive coils, to reduce costs while retaining a premium feel.


The R3 is described as having rally-car-like ground clearance, making it suitable for both road and off-road adventures. Scaringe hints at various applications for this platform, including a performance version (R2x) and an all-wheel-drive Overland van.

Autonomous Driving and Infotainment Advancements

Rivian is also making strides in autonomous driving technology. Scaringe outlines the evolution from Rivian’s Gen 1 platform, which relied on mobile eye-based cameras, to the Gen 2 platform, which boasts 55-megapixel cameras, five radars, and significantly more computing power. This allows for early fusion of data and advanced AI training techniques, leading to substantial cost savings and improved functionality.


For infotainment, Rivian is leveraging Android Automotive and Unreal Engine to create a rich ecosystem of applications and a more engaging, dreamlike experience for users.

Predictive Diagnostics and Market Strategy

Looking ahead, Rivian is expanding into predictive diagnostics, using AI to identify and understand vehicle issues in real-time. This not only reduces service costs but also enhances customer service. Scaringe also touches on Rivian’s strategic focus on major markets like Europe and China, while navigating different digital ecosystems and market dynamics.

Rivian’s Direct-to-Consumer Sales Model

Rivian has opted for a direct-to-consumer sales model, allowing the company to maintain control over its branding and customer experience. Scaringe emphasizes the importance of this approach in ensuring consistent messaging and avoiding the structural costs associated with traditional dealerships. He also acknowledges Tesla’s influence in making electric vehicles cool and desirable, and how Rivian’s original electric sports car company plan evolved after observing Tesla’s success.

Future Plans and Innovations

Scaringe hints at exciting future developments, including the possibility of larger vehicles like an R1S XL a heavy-duty truck, and even an open-roof vehicle. Rivian is also considering how to price higher levels of autonomy and the potential for recurring subscriptions versus upfront payments for features. Scaringe reflects on how continuous improvements, similar to Tesla’s approach, can keep customers engaged and satisfied.


As Rivian continues to innovate and expand its product lineup, Scaringe’s vision remains clear: to redefine what’s possible in the electric vehicle space while staying true to Rivian’s brand values of performance, adventure, and sustainability.

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