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Rivian is in the process of making the R1S and R1T significantly more future-proof the way modern EV owners love: with over-the-air updates. During its first AI and Autonomy Day, Rivian introduced two software upgrades aimed at everyday convenience. The main feature is an expanded hands-free driving mode for second-generation R1 models, i.e. the refreshed vehicles that will be introduced from mid-2024. Having one will soon give your truck or SUV access to a much larger number of compatible roads, making longer drives and commutes feel far less tiring.
This month’s update expands Rivian’s hands-free coverage from about 150,000 miles to about 3.5 million miles of roadway. Rivian calls it “Universal Hands Free” and the idea is simple: If the road has clearly marked lane lines, the system can take over steering without being limited to highway-only use. However, this is still an SAE Level 2 setup, so it is the driver’s responsibility to be alert and ready to take over at a moment’s notice. Rivian also sees this as a try-before-you-buy moment. The extended hands-free function will be offered free of charge until the end of March before it falls under the umbrella of paid software.
After the launch window ends, Rivian plans to start charging for what it calls Autonomy+. Pricing is $49.99 per month or a one-time purchase of $2,500. That pricing will be the real talking point, as it positions Rivian to join the growing list of automakers that charge their customers money for the performance created and enhanced by software. Rivian says the package will gain more features through future updates, citing point-to-point navigation as an upcoming attraction. If the improvements are implemented at a consistent pace and feel truly polished, many owners will see the value. If not, it will be a hard sell, especially for people who already feel like they’ve bought a premium vehicle.
Then there’s the second upgrade, and it could be the one you end up using every day. In the first half of 2026, Rivian plans to gradually introduce an AI-powered Rivian Assistant to its vehicles, eventually reaching every Rivian sold to date. The promise is a more natural, less robotic voice experience that understands how people actually speak, including oddly specific requests like warming up all the seats except the driver’s. Rivian also says the assistant will be able to string together tasks, such as creating a route with coffee breaks, texting your estimated time of arrival, and adjusting plans based on a response. That all sounds ambitious, and if it works as smoothly in the real world as it does in a demo, voice control could finally feel like a feature you choose, rather than one you tolerate.
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Lloyd Tobias is an experienced automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping abreast of breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a keen perspective and deep appreciation for all things automotive. In his texts he combines technical understanding with practical enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and appealing to readers who share his love of driving. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the latest models and staying one step ahead in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
