Rivian’s fourth-quarter earnings showed software, especially its VW joint venture, saved the company in 2025 and will continue to support it in 2026 with the launch of the lower-cost R2 SUV. Earnings also highlighted progress in lowering the cost of goods sold per unit.

Rivian expects to produce between 62,000 and 67,000 vehicles in 2026, up 59% from 2025. The market responded positively to this guidance, with Rivian stock rising 27% after the earnings report. The upcoming R2 SUV is expected to go into production in the first half of the year.

Uber is actively pursuing AV partnerships, while Lyft has been less aggressive in this area, leading to questions about its strategy. Lyft recently announced a $1 billion share repurchase program, prompting some to wonder why the company isn’t investing in AV technology like Uber.

Ouster, a lidar company, has expanded through mergers and acquisitions, most recently acquiring Stereolabs for $35 million and 1.8 million shares. This acquisition is part of the trend of consolidation among perception sensor suppliers. The lidar market is experiencing increased activity due to renewed interest and investment in sensor technologies.

Aurora’s self-driving trucks can now travel nonstop on a 1,000-mile route between Fort Worth and Phoenix. The U.S. SEC closed its investigation into Fisker, while Lyft launched teen accounts for minors to hail rides. Waymo is testing driverless robotaxis in Nashville and exploring innovative solutions like paying Doordash workers to shut robotaxi doors.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: TechCrunch Mobility: Rivian’s savior