Rivian founder RJ Scaringe's industrial automation startup, Mind Robotics, has secured $500 million in Series A funding at a $2 billion valuation. The round was co-led by Accel and Andreessen Horowitz.
Mind Robotics aims to develop a full-stack robotics platform featuring multi-purpose robots and the foundational AI models needed for autonomy. It is also building the infrastructure for industrial deployment.
Spun out of Rivian in November, Mind Robotics is a partner and major shareholder of the electric vehicle manufacturer. Rivian provides crucial data for training the startup's AI models and its factories will serve as testing grounds.
The company seeks to address limitations in current industrial automation, which often only handles repeatable tasks. Mind Robotics intends to deploy robots capable of complex, adaptable tasks requiring human-like dexterity.
R.J. Scaringe stated Mind Robotics will deploy a significant number of robots in Rivian's factories by year-end, focusing on practical industrial applications rather than "humanoid" designs.
Rivian will also grant Mind Robotics access to its custom AI processors, developed for its autonomous vehicles.
The substantial funding round occurs as the manufacturing sector faces labor shortages and increased pressure to automate. Mind Robotics enters a competitive landscape with other robotics startups also attracting significant investment.
This is not Rivian's first startup spinoff; it previously launched Also Inc., a micromobility firm focused on e-bikes and cargo vehicles, which has also secured substantial funding.