Until a few months ago, I think it's fair to say that not many people thought of Rivian as a software company. A maker of cool-looking, high-range electric SUVs and trucks, sure, but not necessarily as a groundbreaking tech operation. That certainly changed when Volkswagen admitted it needed outside help to deal with its endless software woes and inked a $5 billion deal with Rivian to co-develop software and electrical architectures. That was a huge coup for the American startup and a much-needed financial lifeline as it seeks to cross the "valley of death."
