Luminar (LiDAR maker) files for bankruptcy

[rrevi]

After the Rivian autonomy event, particularly with the R2 with LiDAR announcement, I wonder what this Luminar news means for Rivian. Anyone want to chime in with thoughts?

https://techcrunch.com/2025/12/15/lidar-maker-luminar-files-for-bankruptcy/

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[COdogman]

I don't think it will mean much for Rivian's plans. Luminar has been in trouble for awhile. Volvo sued them because they couldn't deliver the sensors they ordered on time, which was basically the final nail in the coffin. Maybe Rivian can purchase some assets on the cheap if they are lucky.

 

[Dark-Fx]

Rivian should buy them.

 

[UnsungZero_OldTimeAdMan]

Rivian should buy them.

Rivian-VW JV should. Split the cost and both get to enjoy benefits of vertical integration. VW is also starting to dabble in autonomous taxis.

 

[portdirect]

RoboSense recently signed deals:

• To deliver a ~million units over 5 years to Toyota for a single model in their line up (rumors suggest rav4).
• Another~million to Dongfeng Nissan for multiple models in their range.

Luminar went bust for a reason unfortunately: they were just not as good at any given price point as their competitors. Even in a fire sale, their assets are a generation behind. A certain CEO (proving that a broken clock is indeed right twice a day) pointed out that for manufacturers the real product is the factory. Picking them up for their folks may make sense, but it looks like they will be on the job market anyway soon unfortunately

 

[kenyee]

Saw the story this morning and wondered which company Rivian is using for their Lidar?

Agree Luminar is junk because volvo rejected them

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