Rivian and Volkswagen are planning to establish a joint headquarters in Palo Alto, according to a report from the San Francisco Business Times. The two companies have formed a joint venture called RV Tech and are searching for at least 75,000 square feet of office space, which would cover about three floors.
The companies had considered using the former Fry’s Electronics site at 340 Portage Avenue but decided against it. That location is currently being redeveloped by Sobrato into offices, retail, and housing, and is already home to Tesla’s engineering hub.
Volkswagen has invested $6 billion in Rivian, gaining access to its software and electrical systems. This partnership is expected to reduce costs for other Volkswagen-owned brands such as Porsche and Audi. Volkswagen’s upcoming ID.1 electric vehicle will use Rivian’s software designs, which are intended to simplify electronics and network architecture.
Through RV Tech, Rivian aims to position itself not only as an electric vehicle manufacturer but also as a technology supplier.
RV Tech’s planned move would place it close to Tesla’s engineering teams and Stanford University talent. The company stated that it is seeking new headquarters space to support rapid growth.
While Tesla relocated its corporate headquarters to Austin, Texas, its engineering operations remain in the Palo Alto area.
Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company xAI is also expanding locally. The firm is reportedly looking for at least 80,000 square feet near its current base while recruiting engineers, designers, and technical staff for its Palo Alto offices.
Currently based in Irvine, RV Tech occupies approximately 70,000 square feet in Palo Alto—likely used for research and development activities.
— Chris Malone Méndez
