Rivian Unleashes Hands-Free Driving on 135,000 Miles of North American Highways

Rivian Unveils Hands-Free Highway Driving Feature in Latest Software Update

Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has announced a significant software update for its second-generation vehicles, introducing a hands-free highway driving feature. This move marks a crucial step for the company, which has been trailing competitors like Tesla and General Motors in offering partially automated driving capabilities.

The new hands-free feature will be available on “compatible highways,” covering an extensive network of 135,000 miles across the United States and Canada. Rivian has ambitious plans to expand this feature substantially by 2026, including off-highway roads.

The Enhanced Highway Assist feature allows the vehicle to control steering, acceleration, and braking, aiming to reduce driver stress and enhance comfort during long journeys. However, drivers are still required to keep their eyes on the road, with an infrared camera monitoring eye movements to ensure compliance. The system is designed to issue warnings and disengage if the driver’s attention strays for too long.

Looking ahead, Rivian plans to introduce a more advanced hands-off, eyes-off feature next year, specifically for low-speed, stop-and-go traffic situations. This Level 3 automation is a rarity in the automotive industry due to regulatory and liability concerns. Experts caution that such systems can pose risks if drivers become inattentive.

While Rivian views partial automation primarily as a convenience feature, a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has highlighted drivers’ tendencies to bypass driver-assist rules, with risks increasing at higher vehicle speeds.

In addition to the automated driving features, Rivian’s update introduces a new Rally drive mode for dual-motor vehicles, enhancing throttle response and steering performance on various terrains. For performance enthusiasts, a $5,000 upgrade unlocks 665 horsepower and 829 lb.-ft. of torque, along with new drive modes including Sport, Rally, and Soft Sand.

The software update also brings several lifestyle and usability enhancements, such as easier wheel size swaps, automatic sideview mirror adjustments for parallel parking, and the ability to close the charge port door via the mobile app.

This comprehensive update demonstrates Rivian’s commitment to innovation and user experience, as the company continues to evolve its offerings in the competitive electric vehicle market.