Rivian Delays 2027 Profit Goal to Focus on Autonomy

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Rivian has disclosed that it no longer expects to reach its long-anticipated goal of positive EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) by 2027. The company cited rising R&D costs associated with its accelerated efforts to develop self-driving capabilities as the primary reason for the delay. Rivian is spending more on autonomy than any other area as it works to launch eyes-off, hands-off driving next year and achieve "personal L4" autonomous driving.

Why it matters

Rivian's shift in priorities highlights the significant investments required to develop advanced autonomous driving technology. While this may delay the company's path to profitability, it reflects the strategic importance Rivian places on autonomy as a key differentiator in the competitive electric vehicle market.

The details

Rivian disclosed the delay in a regulatory filing that also detailed a new partnership with Uber to build robotaxi versions of its upcoming R2 SUV. The company said R&D costs are rising in line with its quickening efforts to build out its self-driving technology, including developing its own "large driving model" and custom processor. Rivian spent $1.7 billion on R&D in 2025, up from $1.6 billion the prior year, to support its autonomy initiatives and the launch of the R2.

• Rivian reported total net losses of $27 billion between its inception in 2009 and the end of 2025.
• Rivian plans to start building a brand new factory in Georgia this year.
• Rivian expects to spend between $1.95 billion and $2.05 billion in 2026.

What’s next

Rivian plans to launch eyes-off, hands-off driving next year and has a goal of making its electric vehicles capable of 'personal L4' driving, a nod to the level set by the Society of Automotive Engineers at which an autonomous vehicle can operate in a particular area with no human intervention.