Rivian buys world model startup to accelerate self-driving ambitions
Rivian has acquired the UK-based startup Third Dimension to integrate its AI-driven 3D world-building technology into its autonomous driving development. The acquisition aims to improve the simulation tools used to train and validate self-driving systems for Rivian's future vehicle fleet, including robotaxis.
Why it matters
The move signals Rivian's aggressive push to close the gap between virtual simulation and real-world performance, a critical hurdle in the race to deploy safe autonomous vehicles.
EV maker Rivian has acquired Third Dimension, a UK startup founded by veterans of the gaming and autonomous vehicle industries that uses AI to turn images and videos into lifelike 3D worlds.
Rivian isn’t getting into gaming, but it does want to leverage Third Dimension’s technology to turn real-world data and build 3D worlds that can accelerate the development of its advanced driver assistance features and the self-driving system for the robotaxis it plans to supply to Uber.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The 15-person team at Third Dimension, most of whom are based in the UK, will be absorbed into Rivian’s autonomy and AI team led by James Philbin. The acquisition also gives Rivian an opportunity to expand its AI hub in London, Philbin said in an exclusive interview.
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