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Rivian partners with AT&T and G+D for eSIM and 5G in R2 EV

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Rivian's new R2 electric vehicle uses GSMA SGP.32 eSIM standard and 5G for global connectivity, simplifying updates and enhancing in-car features with AT&T in the U.S.
Michael Powers, Editor

Rivian has announced a partnership with AT&T and German company Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) to integrate the GSMA SGP.32 eSIM standard and 5G connectivity into its new R2 electric vehicle. This model will be among the first in the world to support the new standard, which was developed specifically for IoT and automotive applications.

The SGP.32 architecture allows for a single hardware module to be used across global markets. This means manufacturers can add or change mobile operators without physically replacing hardware. In practice, this simplifies international expansion and reduces the complexity of managing regional contracts.

For this project, Rivian will utilize G+D's automotive eSIM platform and eIM infrastructure for remote profile management. AT&T will serve as the first mobile operator for the U.S. market, providing 5G connectivity for in-car services, over-the-air updates, and digital features.

For customers, this translates to stable connectivity, regular updates, and expanded functionality throughout the vehicle's lifecycle. This detail matters because it highlights how connectivity is becoming integral to the ownership experience.

Overall, the move looks strategically important for automakers targeting global markets. The ability to produce a single version of a vehicle without regional hardware differences lowers logistics costs and speeds up market entry. For Rivian, this is particularly critical as it prepares for the R2's future international expansion. If the technology proves effective, other manufacturers may adopt similar approaches, potentially leading to standardized digital infrastructure in the industry and increased competition in the connected EV segment.