Subj : Big Rivian update delivers hands-off driving to rival Tesla Autop
To   : All
From : TechnologyDaily
Date : Wed Mar 12 2025 12:15:08

Big Rivian update delivers hands-off driving to rival Tesla Autopilot and a 
new 'Rally' mode

Date:
Wed, 12 Mar 2025 12:02:58 +0000

Description:
Rivian's software update brings greater levels of autonomous driving, as well 
as some new convenience features.

FULL STORY
======================================================================Major 
software update introduces a raft of new features Hands-off driving works 
with second-gen R1S and R1T models Performance Pack customers also treated to 
a Rally mode 

Rivian has announced a major software update that will introduce what it 
calls "hands-free" driving to certain models from today. 

Dubbed "Enhanced Highway Assist", the system allows drivers to take their 
hands off the wheel for extended periods of time on select highways in the 
US. 

Set to rival Fords BlueCruise and Teslas basic AutoPilot packages, it takes 
the strain out of monotonous highway driving duties, so long as those in the 
driving seat are able to take over as soon as the system deems it necessary. 

Unfortunately, any R1 model built before 2024 doesnt feature the required 
hardware to support the new tech, so the update will only appear for those 
with new vehicles. 

According to Inside EVs , Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe claims that "eyes-off" 
autonomous driving will be available on highways next year. 

That said, he noted that additional Lidar sensors would be required if the 
system is to work in urban areas, beyond simple highway driving. Initiate 
Rally Mode (Image credit: Rivian) 

Anyone with a dual-motor R1 that also features the optional Performance Pack 
will now also benefit from a bespoke Rally mode, which is said to deliver 
heightened throttle response and crisper steering on almost any terrain, 
including ice, mud, dirt, or asphalt." 

Ford offered a similar Baja mode on its Ranger Raptor pick-up, which 
essentially turned it into a dune-bashing, dirt-drifting delight. Although 
Rivian makes no mention of whether or not the traction control is affected in 
the new mode. 

Dual-motor owners can now also part with $5,000 (around 3,900 / AU$8,000) to 
unlock the Performance Pack, which sees Standard+, Large or Max Pack R1 
models performance jump to 665hp from the standard cars 533hp. 

Whereas some of the updated features are reserved either for the latest or 
the most powerful trucks, Rivian has also improved the ownership experience 
for everyone else. 

Wheel size can now be configured within the vehicles menus, making for more 
accurate range estimations, while the mirrors automatically tilt down when 
reverse gear is selected to prevent curb rash. 

Theres also an improved tire pressure monitoring system and a handy chime 
that notifies distracted drivers when the vehicle ahead is moving away from a 
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cheapest all-electric model to date



======================================================================
Link to news story:
https://www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/big-rivian-upd
ate-delivers-hands-off-driving-to-rival-tesla-autopilot-and-a-new-rally-mode


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