RJ Scaringe talks R2, R3, R4, R5 and explains "software-defined vehicle" (InsideEV podcast interview)

[ACDC]

RJ interview on InsideEVs Podcast:

This week, we sit down for a fascinating conversation with Rivian founder and CEO R.J. Scaringe. R.J. takes us back to the startup's origins in 2009 and talks about what he’s working on next, like the R2, R3, R4 and R5.

He breaks down how AI is revolutionizing self-driving technology and explains where he sees battery tech going next. We chat about the looming threat of Chinese EVs, why America needs more great electric cars that aren't Teslas and how policy shifts will reshape the U.S. EV landscape for years to come.

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[TexasBob]

Just watched this. very good. Long interview, here is the cheat sheet from YouTube:

• 00:00 Introduction to Rivian and the EV Landscape
• 02:18 The Evolution of Rivian: From Concept to Reality
• 05:06 Current Challenges in the EV Market
• 08:28 The Need for Choice in Electric Vehicles
• 10:23 Building a Brand: The Magic of Rivian
• 12:45 Supply Chain Challenges and Production Hurdles
• 15:05 Navigating Tariffs and Trade Relations
• 16:05 The Impact of EV Policy Changes
• 20:20 The Future of Electric Vehicles and Market Dynamics
• 22:14 The Importance of Electrification for Future Generations
• 25:57 The Politicization of Electric Vehicles
• 28:20 Market Development and Consumer Expectations
• 32:49 Rivian's Sales Performance and Future Projections
• 34:44 Introducing R2: The Next Generation of Rivian Vehicles
• 39:30 R2's Development Process and Consumer Appeal
• 42:55 R2's Competitive Landscape and Pricing Strategy
• 45:47 Rivian's Pickup Truck Strategy and Market Positioning
• 49:13 Understanding the Pickup Market Dynamics
• 50:36 Future Models and Product Development at Rivian
• 54:30 Innovations in Battery Technology
• 01:00:49 The Competitive Landscape for Rivian
• 01:07:30 The Shift in Automotive Technology and Software
• 01:15:03 Preparing for Competition with Chinese Automakers
• 01:19:58 Volkswagen Partnership and Its Implications
• 01:23:56 Advancements in Autonomy and AI

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

Another look at how difficult it is to start and sustain a car company.

 

[Sundar]

Thanks for sharing this. Its really eye opening to hear about the pickup truck strategy - it now makes sense why they don't have a 220v, why they went with a smaller bed than comparable mid size trucks, why the 2nd row isn't as spacious as something like Silverado, etc. Very thoughtful design decisions made...

its also interesting how he answers the question about the "R2T" which anecdotally ive heard a lot of interest in (an even smaller EV truck). I'd personally be interested in an "R1T-X" with a slightly larger 2nd row (2nd row of the Sierra/Silverado is really great for families while the R1T does feel a bit cramped). Bed size is fine imho as I'm in that same demo that isn't looking for a work truck - but like the idea of being able to throw camping gear and bikes in a truck bed vs dealing with hitch mount racks.

 

[Gen(R3)Xer]

It was interesting, but somewhat dry. I thought the Tosh Show interview was more fun and personable.

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