Epic Games used a state-of-the-art, digital Rivian R1T to show off the latest rendering technology and vehicle physics in Unreal Engine, its tool for immersive, 3D game creation, at the 2023 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco.
The Epic Games keynote, “State of Unreal,” shows a photorealistic R1T making its way down a rocky trail in a jungle and the entire environment – from the way the air suspension responds to rocks and roots to the way the tires move through water and mud – uses real-time physics to make the visuals and movements accurate and immersive.
It's not the first time we've collaborated with Epic games to create next-level, realistic vehicle simulation. We chose Unreal Engine to power essential parts of our in-vehicle experience, including to provide drivers a real-time rendering of their vehicle and the environment around it.
We interviewed Trevor Greene, our Lead Visualization Engineer, who worked with Epic on the project.
What was it like partnering with Epic Games on this project?
Trevor: When they approached us with the latest Unreal software, it was so exciting to see its full potential as a driving simulator and environment builder. Using real-world data from the R1T, we modeled the design, dynamic chassis, and UI. The new Unreal software let us create a simulation together that looks and drives exactly like the real thing.
How does this new rendering tech help with your visualization work at Rivian?
Trevor: Partnering with Unreal on this technology has really helped us drive innovation at Rivian while lessening the resources needed to develop new Rivian products from start to finish. It helps with everything from studio design work to UI integration.
Where is Rivian using the latest Unreal Engine software?
Trevor: The Rivian driver display already uses the Unreal Engine, and we’re looking at some fun integrations with these new tools soon. That can just happen via OTA updates. We are also looking to design vehicle animations and reels with this tech. There’s a lot of potential.
Watch the result of our collab with Unreal Engine.
Follow along with Rivian
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