Volkswagen and Rivian Collaborate on Next-Generation Electric Golf

The Future of the Golf

Volkswagen is set to bring back the renowned Golf model as a fully electric vehicle with the help of Rivian. The upcoming ninth-generation Golf will be developed on the Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), thanks to the collaboration between VW and Rivian. This partnership, which focuses on electric architecture and software engineering, marks a significant shift in the automotive industry.

A New Journey Begins

Thomas Schäfer, the head of VW, stated that this joint venture aims to create a groundbreaking software-defined vehicle. The Golf will serve as a flagship product for this reinvention, combining iconic design with modern electric technology. Despite the anticipation for the new Golf, customers will have to wait until 2029 for its release.

Transitioning toward Electrification

Volkswagen does not plan to discontinue its conventionally powered Golf models immediately. The current Mk8 version, introduced in 2019, will continue to be available until 2035. This timeframe aligns with the European Union's commitment to prohibit the sale of vehicles with harmful emissions.

Rivian's Impact on Volkswagen

Rivian's expertise is not limited to assisting Volkswagen with the Golf project. Audi and Porsche, both part of the Volkswagen Group, will benefit from Rivian's electrical architecture and software technology, with new vehicles potentially entering the market as early as 2027.