Key Points
- Rivian will launch a hands-free driving system by the end of the year. The system will use upgraded cameras, sensors, and pre-mapped routes.
- CEO RJ Scaringe hinted at visual indicators, like LED lights, to show when autonomous mode is active.
- Rivian aims to introduce SAE Level 3 “eyes-off” autonomy by 2025, rivaling Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
- Unlike Tesla, Rivian is focusing on achievable, legally compliant autonomous features.
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe has revealed plans to introduce an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), enabling hands-free driving in its R1T and R1S models. This system, which is expected to launch by the end of the year, will function similarly to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature. It will use a combination of cameras and sensors to allow drivers to remove their hands from the wheel on pre-mapped routes.
Rivian recently upgraded its vehicles with improved cameras, sensors, and processing units to handle more data, making the new system possible. However, it remains unclear whether first-generation Rivian models will receive this update or if it will be exclusive to newer vehicles equipped with the latest hardware.
Speaking at the opening of a new Rivian Space in San Francisco, Scaringe hinted that the newly introduced matrix LED headlights and full-width light bars could serve as indicators to inform other road users when a Rivian vehicle is operating in autonomous mode.
Rivian is also targeting a fully SAE Level 3 autonomous system by next year. If successful, this would allow drivers to take their eyes off the road and engage in side activities under specific conditions, similar to the advanced systems offered by Mercedes-Benz and BMW in select U.S. states and European regions.
Rivian’s driver assistance features resemble Tesla’s basic Autopilot, providing adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance on highways. The upcoming upgrade would enhance these capabilities, allowing drivers to operate hands-free while remaining ready to take control if needed. However, users will still be required to keep their eyes on the road, as regulations only permit full “eyes-off” driving for SAE Level 3-certified systems.
Unlike Tesla, which has been criticized for failing to deliver its Full Self-Driving promises, Rivian is taking a more cautious approach. It focuses on legally viable and technically achievable advancements. However, limiting new features to the latest models could alienate early adopters who initially supported the brand.
