Rivian (RIVN) plans to launch a new advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) this year to enable hands-free driving. The new feature is expected to be similar to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature. And in 2026, Rivian will up the ante with an “eyeless” system.
Rivian plans to drive hands-free in 2025, and without eyes in 2026
At the opening of the new Rivian Space in San Francisco on Thursday, CEO RJ Scaringe revealed some exciting developments to look forward to.
According to the folks at RivianForums, Scaringe said during the event that the company plans to launch a hands-free ADAS feature in 2025. Next year, Rivian will follow suit with an “eyes-free” system.
The big question is, will current Rivian R1S and R1T owners have access? This could depend on whether you’re driving a Gen 1 or Gen 2 model. All Rivian models built through 2024 are considered Gen 1, while 2025 and later models are considered Gen 2.
Rivian introduced the second-generation R1S and R1T last summer. It’s been “completely re-engineered” with hundreds of hardware improvements, completely redesigned software, and more.
Upgrades include a new interior autonomous system, the Rivian Autonomy Platform. It is powered by 11 cameras, five radars and predictive artificial intelligence.
Rivian said the new platform is “10 times more powerful” than the old one. It also features a 360-degree view with 8 times the number of camera pixels compared to previous models. The second-generation models already include features like blind spot monitoring and highway assist.
With the Premium version, drivers have access to Lane Change, while Rivian said improved highway assist and other features will be available soon.
Although all Rivian R1S and R1T EVs include over-the-air updates, some features may require additional hardware or software not included with first-generation models.
Rivian’s hands-free, attention-free autonomous highway driving will be available in the upcoming R2 model. The smaller electric SUV is scheduled to be released in the first half of 2026, with a starting price of about $45,000.
Take Electric
As a Tesla Model 3 driver, I can tell you that Full Self-Driving (FSD) is fun and can be useful at times. I’ve used it on longer trips, like the Blue Ridge Mountains, and it makes driving or sitting in the car much more enjoyable.
Although the system still requires you to pay attention, it enables the car to drive itself almost anywhere with “minimal driver intervention.”
The new Actual Smart Summon feature is one of my favorite features. Through the Tesla app, you can summon your car to come to you in the parking lot. The car will then move around cars, people and other objects to find you.
Other functions, such as Navigate on Autopilot, will take over while the car is on the highway, changing lanes (with turn signals) and braking or accelerating as needed.
For Rivian owners, it will be an upgraded system from Lane Change and Highway Assist. The “free eye” system coming next year will likely face some regulatory hurdles before it can be rolled out, so it will be interesting to see what that will consist of. Check back for more information soon. We will keep you updated with the latest developments.
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