Today's vehicles are shaped by not only the hardware that rolls off the factory floor but also the software and connectivity built into the cars. The driving experience, as supported by technology, can improve long after the car, truck, or SUV leaves the factory.
Rivian is an automaker that embraced that idea from the beginning. As one of the early software-defined vehicle innovators, Rivian set out to create an ownership journey that could continuously evolve through connected technology, over-the-air updates, and new capabilities delivered throughout the life of the vehicle. AT&T was the connectivity provider that helped bring that vision to life.
"Every time we go to explore the next big thing, whether it be streaming video in the car, faster upload or download times, OTA updates, or level four autonomy, AT&T always finds a way to deliver results against our business needs,” said Tom Solomon, Rivian's Head of Business Development, in describing the relationship and how connectivity supports Rivian's goals.
When Rivian and AT&T began working together in 2019, Rivian was preparing to bring its EVs to market. Both companies understood that software and connectivity would play a central role in the future of the driving experience, creating a foundation for a relationship that continues today.
In 2023, AT&T became the connectivity provider for Rivian in the United States and Canada. Three years later, the companies built on that momentum with the announcement of AT&T 5G connectivity for Rivian's R2 platform, supporting the next generation of connected vehicles.
Together, these milestones reflect a relationship that has grown from early planning conversations into ongoing collaboration around the industry's most advanced connected transportation technologies.
Software-defined vehicles are designed to gain new functionality throughout their lifecycle. For drivers, that means a vehicle can adapt and grow well beyond the day ownership begins. New software updates, connected services, and additional functionality can be delivered throughout the ownership journey, helping vehicles remain current long after they reach customers.
More than six years later, we remain focused on helping turn ambitious ideas into real-world connected services. "Being able to pick up the phone, get technical or commercial support, or throw our next innovative, crazy idea at them and have them respond in an open and enthusiastic manner... that's what really sets them apart for us," said Solomon.
That spirit of collaboration continues to help both companies explore new possibilities in connected transportation. As Rivian pushes connected transportation forward, AT&T provides the network foundation that supports those capabilities. What began as a shared belief in the potential of connected vehicles continues today through ongoing collaboration across Rivian's growing lineup, from the R1 platform to the next-generation R2 and beyond.
The future of transportation will be shaped by more than technology alone. It will be defined by company collaboration that brings together powerful connectivity and a shared commitment to lead what’s next for drivers and passengers everywhere.