Rivian and Google Collaborate on Custom Maps for EVs and App

Rivian is partnering with Google to bring a custom version of Google Maps into its EVs and app. The new maps feature will include estimated time of arrival, traffic updates, and satellite imagery, integrated into Rivian's navigation system. The in-car navigation will also include tappable points of interest and Rivian's trip planner, which showcases EV range estimates and charging stop selection. This collaboration is a departure from Google's typical automotive integrations and is expected to enhance Rivian's navigation capabilities.

Rivian, the California-based electric vehicle (EV) startup, has announced a significant update to its in-car navigation system. The company is integrating a custom version of Google Maps into its EVs and app, marking a departure from its previous MapBox-based system. This collaboration, which has been in the works for 18 months, aims to enhance Rivian's navigation capabilities and address customer feedback regarding the existing system [2].

The new feature, called Rivian Navigation with Google Maps, will bring real-time traffic updates, estimated time of arrival, and satellite imagery to Rivian's EVs. Additionally, it will include tappable points of interest and Rivian's trip planner, which showcases EV range estimates and charging stop selection [1]. The integration will also include Rivian's signature charging score, which rates individual charging sites based on plug-in data from Rivian vehicles [4].

The collaboration between Rivian and Google is unique compared to Google's typical automotive integrations. While Google has previously pushed into the automotive sector through Android Auto and Google Built-In, the Rivian partnership involves a more open integration at the API level, allowing Rivian to build a custom navigation system on top of Google Maps' technology [2].

The new maps feature will start rolling out today via a software update in Rivian vehicles and its mobile app. The updated mobile app will also include additional trip planning features, such as place photos, descriptions, and satellite views (with a Connect+ subscription) [1].

Rivian's Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, stated that the collaboration with Google has allowed the company to create a unique navigation experience that combines Google's navigation expertise with Rivian's custom design and EV-friendly features [2].

References:
[1] https://insideevs.com/news/765763/rivian-ev-r1s-r1t-google-maps/
[2] https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/rivian-taps-google-to-bring-custom-maps-into-its-evs-and-app/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/Rivian/comments/1m0imjl/rivian_navigation_with_google_maps_software/
[4] https://www.thedrive.com/news/rivian-finally-addresses-nav-complaints-with-built-in-custom-google-maps

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