The electric vehicle (EV) industry is shifting gears, and Rivian is taking an interesting detour—into micromobility. On Wednesday, a new startup called Also officially announced its spin-off from Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ: RIVN). The fresh-faced company has already secured $105 million in Series B funding from Eclipse, a venture capital firm. It’s setting its sights on lightweight electric vehicles (LEVs) designed to fit various budgets and global markets.
Why the Shift to Smaller EVs?
Full-sized electric vehicles often steal the spotlight, but there’s a growing need for smaller, more affordable transportation options—especially in crowded cities where parking is a headache and car ownership feels like a luxury. Also, it is stepping in to fill that gap, bringing Rivian’s expertise in EV technology to a new class of vehicles that are easier on wallets and urban infrastructure.
“We’ve been leveraging Rivian’s technology stack and adapting it for smaller form factors, resulting in some truly innovative designs,” Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe told Reuters.
A Market Full of Challenges—And Opportunities
The micromobility sector has been a rollercoaster. Companies like VanMoof, Bird, and Lime once rode a wave of venture capital, only to hit roadblocks like high operating costs, tricky regulations, and unpredictable profitability. Many startups have struggled to scale successfully—excitement alone doesn’t pay the bills.
But also, it is banking on a different approach. Instead of sticking to a single-vehicle model or betting on just one strategy, the company is developing a range of lightweight EVs designed to meet various consumer needs in other regions.
What We Know About Also’s Plans
Also, it hasn’t spilled all the details on its upcoming lineup, but here’s what we do know:
- The company will operate independently, though Rivian will retain a minority stake.
- It will use Rivian’s EV technology but with more flexibility to experiment.
- Its first product is expected to launch in 2026, starting in the U.S. and Europe.
- Future models will be tailored for Asia and South America and designed to fit local infrastructure and transportation needs.
Rivian’s interest in micromobility isn’t exactly new. In 2022, the company filed trademarks for electric bikes and mobility solutions—now, those plans are finally taking shape.
The Bigger Picture
As cities rethink transportation, lightweight EVs could make urban mobility more sustainable and affordable. Also wants to be at the forefront of that shift, offering a practical alternative to traditional cars and motorcycles.
With Rivian’s engineering muscle and Eclipse’s financial backing, it is well-positioned to make an impact. But in a market where even big names have stumbled, the real test will be whether it can turn innovation into something that sticks.
Would you consider switching to a lightweight EV for city travel? Let’s hear your thoughts!
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[…] Rivian’s Spin-Off ‘Also’ Secures $105 Million, Future of Lightweight EVs? […]