Rivian (RIVN) plans to launch a brand new Superior Driver Help System (ADAS) this yr to allow hands-free driving. The brand new function is predicted to be just like Tesla’s Full-Self Driving (FSD). In 2026, Rivian will up the ante with an “eyes-free” system.
Rivian plans hands-free driving in 2025, eyes-free in 2026
On the new Rivian House opening in San Francisco on Thursday, CEO RJ Scaringe revealed a number of thrilling developments to stay up for.
In accordance with the oldsters at RivianForums, Scaringe mentioned throughout the occasion that the corporate plans to launch a hands-free ADAS function in 2025. Subsequent yr, Rivian will comply with it up with an “eyes-free” system.
The massive query is, will present Rivian R1S and R1T house owners acquire entry? It may rely upon whether or not you drive a Gen 1 or Gen 2 mannequin. All Rivian fashions constructed via 2024 are thought-about Gen 1, whereas fashions 2025 and newer are Gen 2.
Rivian launched the second-generation R1S and R1T final summer season. They have been “fully reengineered” with a whole lot of {hardware} enhancements, absolutely redesigned software program, and extra.
The upgrades embody its new in-house autonomy system, Rivian Autonomy Platform. It’s powered by 11 cameras, 5 radars, and predictive AI.
Rivian mentioned the brand new platform is “10 instances extra highly effective” than the outdated system. It additionally options 360-degree visibility with 8X the variety of digicam pixels than the earlier fashions. Gen 2 fashions already embody options like Blind Spot Monitoring and Freeway Help.
With the premium model, drivers acquire entry to Lane Change, whereas Rivian mentioned Enhanced Freeway Help and different options have been coming quickly.
Though all Rivian R1S and R1T EVs embody OTA updates, some options could require further {hardware} or software program not included on Gen 1 fashions.
Rivian hands-free and attention-free autonomous freeway driving might be obtainable on the upcoming R2 mannequin. The smaller electrical SUV is due out within the first half of 2026, beginning at round $45,000.
Electrek’s Take
As a Tesla Mannequin 3 driver, I can let you know that Full-Self Driving (FSD) is enjoyable and could be useful at instances. I’ve used it on longer journeys, like via the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it makes driving or sitting within the automobile somewhat extra gratifying.
Though the system nonetheless requires you to concentrate, it permits the automobile to drive itself nearly wherever with “minimal driver intervention.”
The brand new Really Sensible Summon function is one among my favorites. Via the Tesla app, you may summon your automobile to return to you in a parking zone. The automobile will then transfer round different automobiles, individuals, and objects to seek out you.
Different capabilities, like Navigate on Autopilot, will take over whereas the automobile is on the freeway, altering lanes (with flip alerts) and braking or accelerating as wanted.
For Rivian house owners, it will be like an upgraded system from Freeway and Lane Change Help. The “eyes-free” system coming subsequent yr will probably have a number of regulatory hurdles to cross earlier than it rolls out, so it must be fascinating to see what that can encompass. Examine again for more information quickly. We’ll maintain you up to date with the newest.
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