Rivian Automotive has announced plans to team up with Volkswagen Group to further EV and software development.

The move will see both companies entering an equally-controlled and owned joint venture. A mutually beneficial move, both companies will work together to “create next-generation electrical architecture and best-in-class software technology.”

According to Rivian, both companies look to release vehicles benefitting from this partnership within the second half of the decade; and in the meantime, Volkswagen Group will have the means to utilize Rivian’s existing systems. That said, both companies will operate separately from one another, launching their own vehicles apart from the other. Along with this partnership, Volkswagen Group intends on making a $5 billion investment into Rivian, starting with an initial $1 billion investment.

This decision comes at an interesting time, considering Volkswagen’s decision to revive the Scout brand with an all-electric portfolio of off-road-capable vehicles– the very same ethos that spurred and continues to be a prominent part of Rivian’s image.