Rivian has taken a strong step in electric vehicle innovation by rolling out a new hands-free driving feature, intensifying competition with major players like Tesla and Ford in the global EV market. The upgrade arrives through a fresh software update for second-generation R1 vehicles, showing Rivian’s clear push toward smarter and more autonomous driving systems.
Known as Universal Hands-Free, the feature allows drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel on more than 3.5 million miles of roads across the United States and Canada. Unlike earlier versions that worked only on highways, the system now functions on highways and surface streets where lane markings remain clearly visible.
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Previously, Rivian’s hands-free driving coverage was limited to nearly 135,000 miles of highways, making this update a major expansion in everyday driving usability. The company introduced the feature during its first Autonomy and AI Day, underlining its increasing focus on software-driven vehicle intelligence.
Despite the hands-free capability, drivers are required to stay fully alert because the system cannot stop at traffic lights, respond to stop signs, take turns, or follow navigation directions. If a driver manually uses the turn signal, the system automatically resumes after the lane change is completed.
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Meanwhile, Rivian also shared plans for point-to-point autonomous driving, which is expected to launch in 2026 using a new autonomy computer and a roof-mounted lidar sensor. This next-generation system will debut in the upcoming R2 SUV, highlighting Rivian’s long-term roadmap toward full autonomy.
Along with autonomy upgrades, the software update introduces smartphone-based digital keys and new quad-motor features such as Kick Turn and customizable RAD Tuner drive modes. However, as similar systems have faced safety concerns after accidents, Rivian’s progress also emphasizes the importance of driver attention and responsible use.