Rivian has launched its new "Universal Hands-Free" driving software for second-generation R1 electric vehicles, marking a significant expansion of its driver assistance capabilities. This advanced system, unveiled at the company's recent Autonomy & AI Day, allows drivers to remove their hands from the steering wheel on over 3.5 million miles of roads across the United States and Canada, encompassing both highways and surface streets where visible lane lines are present. This software update is now available for eligible vehicles.
While a major step forward, Rivian emphasizes that the "Universal Hands-Free" feature requires active driver supervision. Critically, the software does not automatically stop or slow down for traffic lights or stop signs, nor does it execute turns or follow navigation instructions. Drivers must remain attentive and be prepared to take control, especially when approaching intersections or needing to change direction. The system will re-engage if a driver manually uses their turn signal and completes a turn.
This update significantly enhances Rivian's previous hands-free driving system, which was limited to approximately 135,000 miles of highways. The company's long-term vision, detailed last week, includes achieving full point-to-point autonomous driving by 2026. For its upcoming R2 SUV, set to debut in 2026, Rivian is developing a new autonomy computer featuring custom silicon and a roof-mounted lidar sensor, designed to enable full self-driving capabilities.
The introduction of expanded driver assistance systems like Rivian's "Universal Hands-Free" also highlights inherent risks. Rival automakers, including Tesla and Ford, have faced numerous incidents, crashes, and fatalities linked to drivers' over-reliance on or inattention while using similar systems. These events have often led to extensive investigations and lawsuits, underscoring the importance of driver awareness and responsibility even with advanced autonomy features.
Beyond the enhanced driver assistance, the software update also introduces several other notable features. Owners of second-generation R1 vehicles can now add a new version of Rivian's digital key to their digital wallets on iPhones, Apple Watches, Google Pixels, and Samsung phones. Additionally, quad-motor variants of the Gen 2 R1 EVs receive the highly anticipated "Kick Turn" feature and the customizable "RAD Tuner" drive modes.
