Rivian’s software chief thinks you don’t need CarPlay or buttons

Rivian software chief Wassym Bensaid said the company is building vehicles around software, AI, and a software-first user experience.

Rivian and Volkswagen Group’s RV Tech joint venture will develop the operating system and electrical architecture for future EVs, including brands like Audi and Scout.

Bensaid highlighted the new Rivian Assistant as part of Rivian’s AI push and said the company is designing toward zonal architecture.

He also defended Rivian’s decision to avoid Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and heavy reliance on physical buttons in favor of its own interface.