We manufacture robotics components in America for the defense industrial base.How we got here
Rival was founded in 2024 as a robotics competition company. We've since transformed into a manufacturing company making brushless direct current (BLDC) motors entirely in America with a China-free supply chain. This is Rival's first product.What is a brushless motor?
BLDC motors are the “electric muscles” that propel drones, robots, humanoid robots, EVs, and automated factories. They convert code into exact motion with high efficiency, high power density and minimal maintenance.Why we exist
Supply-chain resilience is the key problem for our customers. They want documented, non-PRC (People’s Republic of China) components to avoid risk of manufacturing disruptions that would critically hinder our national security. We make motors that match or exceed current PRC options for performance and reliability.Why now
U.S. laws are kicking in that ban Chinese content in federal systems. FAR is implementing NDAA §5949 (covered Chinese semiconductors) and a new FAR clause (ASDA) restricting PRC-made UAS/components, which will force a China-free, domestic sUAS supply chain.The DoD is also rapidly fielding small UAS (Blue UAS pathway) while policymakers/investors push to rebuild the defense base. Chinese drones are being pushed out of federal use, creating immediate need for compliant U.S. suppliers.The PRC controls 85-90% of rare-earth magnets/motors supply, so any shock or new export control can stall U.S. drone production. Kickstarting domestic motor capacity is urgent and overdue. This hardware, which has historically pertained to a niche hobby (FPV), is now critical to national security.Vision
Rival aims to become the China-independent parts supplier for critical robotics components that major U.S. integrators and primes rely on by default. A multi-site, allied-compliant manufacturing network with full provenance and test data.Rival is backed by our legendary partners at Boost VC.