Storm Clouds Are Gathering Over The Volkswagen–Rivian Bromance - CleanTechnica

The article discusses Volkswagen Group’s ongoing struggles with automotive software development, despite its strengths in manufacturing and electric powertrains. Volkswagen’s early electric vehicle, the ID.3, faced significant software glitches that delayed deliveries and affected usability, a problem that extended across its brands including Porsche, Audi, and Bentley. To address these issues, Volkswagen created an internal software division, CARIAD, but it failed to fully resolve the challenges. Consequently, Volkswagen sought external help, partnering with Rivian, a company noted for more reliable vehicle software, initially pledging substantial investment to leverage Rivian’s platforms. However, the partnership between Volkswagen and Rivian is reportedly encountering serious difficulties. According to German media, electric models planned to use Rivian’s software, such as Audi’s Q8 e-tron and A4 e-tron, face delays of at least a year, while Porsche’s K1 electric SUV launch is postponed indefinitely. Rivian’s software algorithms also do not easily transfer to internal combustion engine vehicles