GoKawiilRivian acquires UK startup Third Dimension to boost self-driving simulation
Rivian has acquired Third Dimension, a London-based startup that uses AI to convert images and video into 3D world models, for an undisclosed sum. The 15-person team, founded in 2024 by Tolga Kart and Piotr Sokólski and previously focused on gaming applications, will join Rivian's autonomy and AI division under James Philbin and shift entirely to automated-driving work.
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The deal suggests Rivian wants higher-fidelity simulation data to train and validate its driver-assistance and robotaxi systems, potentially narrowing the gap between synthetic and real-world training environments that CEO Tolga Kart described as a persistent challenge. It also signals Rivian's intent to grow an AI engineering presence in London, according to Philbin, as it works toward supplying autonomous vehicles to Uber.
- Rivian acquired Third Dimension, a UK AI startup specializing in turning real-world footage into 3D simulation environments.
- The 15-person team, previously targeting gaming, defense and AV markets, will now work solely on Rivian's self-driving technology.
- The acquisition expands Rivian's London AI hub and supports its autonomy roadmap, including robotaxis planned for Uber.
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Published there as: “Rivian buys world model startup to accelerate self-driving ambitions”
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