Rivian has acquired the UK-based startup Third Dimension to enhance its autonomous driving simulation capabilities. The startup, founded in 2024, consists of a 15-person team that will join Rivian’s autonomy and AI division under James Philbin. The acquisition also expands Rivian's presence in London.
Third Dimension specializes in generative AI tools that convert real-world data into 3D environments. The startup previously raised a $7 million seed round led by Felicis in October 2024. Its founders bring experience from Tesla’s Autopilot simulation team and Wayve’s neural simulator projects.
Rivian currently collects over 400,000 driving sequences daily from its R1S, R1T, R2, and commercial van fleet. The company plans to use Third Dimension's technology to reconstruct these real-world scenes into 3D test worlds, allowing for the simulation of rare edge cases that are difficult to capture in standard driving.
The development of autonomous systems is critical for Rivian's partnership with Uber, which involves an investment of up to $1.25 billion. The agreement includes milestones for deploying 10,000 driverless R2 vehicles in San Francisco and Miami starting in 2028. Rivian has also adjusted its timeline for eyes-off driving to 2027.
