Rivian, the American electric vehicle manufacturer, is set to enhance its autonomous driving capabilities. CEO RJ Scaringe announced plans to introduce an advanced driver assistance system that allows for "hands-free" driving by 2025, followed by a "eyes-free" system in 2026. This development aligns with the automotive industry's trend towards integrating more autonomous features.
The current Rivian vehicles are equipped with the "Rivian Autonomy Platform," which assists drivers but still requires their attention and control. The upcoming "hands-free" and "eyes-free" systems will be featured in the R2 model, a smaller electric SUV expected to launch in the first half of 2026, with a starting price of approximately $45,000.
Scaringe also addressed concerns about potential impacts from former President Trump's executive orders, which aim to reverse the Biden administration's electric vehicle support policies initiated in 2021. He downplayed the potential negative effects on the electric vehicle sector.