Rivian's AI Chip Shift

Rivian has revealed its custom-built AI chip, the Rivian Autonomy Processor (RAP1), marking a move away from Nvidia technology. This new chip is a 5nm processor designed for vision-centric AI, integrating processing and memory on a single module for enhanced efficiency and performance. The RAP1 powers Rivian's third-generation Autonomy Compute Module 3 (ACM3), boasting 1600 sparse INT8 TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second) and processing 5 billion pixels per second. The chip also features RivLink, a low-latency interconnect technology to multiply processing power.

This transition to in-house silicon is central to Rivian's roadmap for next-generation vehicle autonomy, with a longer-term goal of achieving Level 4 autonomy. Rivian also introduced Autonomy+, a driver-assistance package, priced at $2,500 or $49.99 per month, including a Universal Hands-Free feature for use on over 3.5 million miles of roads in the US and Canada. Furthermore, Rivian plans to integrate LiDAR sensors into its next-generation R2 models to improve obstacle and road condition identification.

These advancements were announced at Rivian's first Autonomy and AI Day, highlighting the company's commitment to AI-driven vehicle technology. The new AI model, called the Large Driving Model, is trained on real and simulated driving data. The first deliveries of the R2 are expected in the first half of next year.