<div id="readability-page-1"><figure> <img src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/12/gettyimages-2251472489.jpg/query-Y3JvcD0wLDAsMTAwLDEwMCZxdWFsaXR5PTkwJnN0cmlwPWFsbA?x-oss-process=image/auto-orient,1/interlace,1/resize,w_1440,h_1440/quality,q_95/format,jpg" width="5000" height="3333" original-src="https://imageproxy.pbkrs.com/https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/12/gettyimages-2251472489.jpg/query-Y3JvcD0wLDAsMTAwLDEwMCZxdWFsaXR5PTkwJnN0cmlwPWFsbA"/> <figcaption> </figcaption> </figure> RJ Scaringe is sitting in Rivian's Palo Alto offices, explaining why the adventure-themed EV company suddenly decided to build its own self-driving cars, when an unexpected guest glides by the window outside: Waymo. A robotaxi from the Alphabet-owned company pulls up outside the office. The passenger, an analyst from Goldman Sachs, briefly takes a selfie before climbing inside. The Rivian founder and CEO chuckles at the scene. &#34;That's amazing,&#34; he laughs. &#34;So perfect.&#34; The arrival of the Waymo helps clarify the challenge that lies ahead for Rivian. A few hours earlier, Scaringe was onstage in front of an audience of hundreds of investor … Read the full story at The Verge.</div>

RIVN

Rivian is pivoting to develop its own self-driving cars, marking a strategic shift beyond its adventure-themed EVs. This move positions Rivian in direct competition with companies like Waymo and Tesla, as highlighted by a Waymo robotaxi's visit to Rivian's Palo Alto office. CEO RJ Scaringe acknowledges the challenge ahead in this competitive landscape.

Rivian’s AI pivot is about more than chasing Tesla