Rivian’s upcoming R2 will be among the first vehicles globally to launch with support for the GSMA SGP.32 eSIM standard. The automaker has announced a three-way collaboration with Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) and AT&T to deliver a scalable, 5G-connected platform from day one.
Highlights
- Rivian R2 is among the first production vehicles to launch with GSMA SGP.32-enabled eSIM technology
- SGP.32 allows a single-SKU hardware strategy, reducing complexity across global markets
- AT&T will serve as the initial U.S. mobile network provider, delivering 5G for OTA updates and in-vehicle services
- G+D supplies the automotive-grade eSIM hardware and remote management infrastructure
What SGP.32 Means for Automotive Connectivity
The GSMA SGP.32 standard was designed specifically for IoT and automotive applications. Unlike legacy eSIM standards, it enables automakers to add or change mobile network operator (MNO) partners remotely — without hardware modifications.
For Rivian, this translates directly to a single-SKU global deployment strategy. Historically, managing regional MNO integrations required separate hardware configurations. SGP.32 eliminates that overhead, simplifying both production and long-term fleet management.
G+D’s Role in the Platform
Rivian will use G+D’s automotive-grade eSIM hardware alongside the company’s eSIM IoT Remote Manager (eIM) infrastructure. Together, these components form a secure, remotely managed connectivity layer. This architecture is designed to remain viable throughout the vehicle’s full lifecycle — supporting connectivity updates as regions, networks, and requirements evolve.
G+D’s BeekGek Lim, Global Head of Business Line Digital Offerings, said the SGP.32 collaboration allows Rivian to deploy a single global hardware SKU while retaining full flexibility to manage connectivity remotely and securely throughout the vehicle lifecycle.
AT&T Provides Initial 5G Network Access
AT&T will serve as Rivian’s U.S. network partner at launch. The carrier’s 5G infrastructure will support in-vehicle services, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and additional digital features as they roll out.
Rivian’s Brandon Blumber, Global Director of Business Development, noted that the connectivity architecture is designed for performance today while scaling into new markets over time.
Industry Context and MWC Showcase
This announcement reflects a broader industry shift toward open, standardized connectivity frameworks in automotive. Rather than proprietary carrier arrangements, automakers are increasingly adopting interoperable standards that reduce vendor lock-in and support global launches.
G+D and Rivian are presenting the SGP.32 implementation at MWC Barcelona on March 4, 2026, as part of the “IoT Summit: Simplifying the Future of Connected Innovation” in Partner Theatre 4, Hall 8.0.
For more information on the Rivian R2, visit www.rivian.com/r2.
Sign up for our popular daily email to catch all the latest EV news!
