Volkswagen Group’s recent $5 billion partnership with Rivian is already bearing fruit, as VW has been leveraging Rivian’s software talent months before the official announcement.
VW’s software division, Cariad, has hired at least 23 senior employees from Rivian, including key figures like the chief software officer, chief product security officer, two of its vice presidents, and two principal engineers. This preemptive talent acquisition underscores VW’s intent to enhance its software capabilities, crucial for its evolving software-defined vehicle (SDV) strategy.
Cariad’s recruitment strategy has focused on assembling a strong team at its SDV Hub in Mountain View, California. This facility is dedicated to developing Cariad’s next-generation software architecture, known as “software 2.0.” The SDV Hub’s efforts are central to VW’s ambition to integrate a unified operating system across all its brands.
Leading the SDV Hub is Sanjay Lal, a former Rivian executive who played a significant role in developing Rivian’s infotainment systems and middleware.
About VW-Rivian Joint Venture
Although not yet formalized, the joint venture between VW and Rivian is expected to capitalize on the talents of these early hires by the fourth quarter. The partnership aims to combine VW’s extensive automotive expertise with Rivian’s innovative software and electrical architecture.
Cariad’s aggressive hiring from Rivian comes amidst its restructuring efforts. Created in 2020 to advance VW’s software and electrical systems, Cariad has faced numerous challenges, including delays in its software 1.2 platform and executive shakeups.
Under the new leadership of Peter Bosch, Cariad successfully completed the 1.2 platform for the upcoming Porsche Macan EV. However, the focus is now on the 2.0 architecture, intended to elevate VW to the level of competitors like Tesla.
Others Are Also Chasing Tech Talent
The SDV Hub currently employs around 230 people, with former Rivian employees making up around 10% of its workforce. This influx of talent from Rivian represents a shift from Cariad’s previous strategy of sourcing talent internally from VW Group and its traditional suppliers.
The move aligns with broader industry trends, as other automakers, including Ford, also seek talent from tech companies and startups to bolster their EV projects.
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