Rivian launches hands-free driving and a new ‘Rally Mode,’ but that’s not all

Rivian introduced a few cool new features in its latest software update, including hands-free driving through its new ADAS, Enhanced Highway Assist. But that’s not all. Rivian also launched a “Rally” drive mode and unlocked a new way for EV drivers to gain more power.

Rivian launches hands-free driving for EV owners

Through regular OTA updates, Rivian’s electric vehicles continue to get smarter, more efficient, and, well, just more fun to drive.

In its latest software update (2025.06), the EV maker introduced its new advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), Enhanced Highway Assist. The new feature unlocks hands-free driving for Gen 2 R1S and R1T owners.

Rivian said the hands-free driving feature can be used for “extended periods” on compatible highways. It’s similar to Tesla’s Autopilot, which is technically a “hands-on” system that requires you still to pay attention to the road ahead using interior cameras.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

Rivian’s Enhanced Highway Assist uses an infrared camera in the rearview mirror to detect whether you are paying attention rather than periodically requiring you to take control of the steering wheel.

With regular software updates nearly every month, Rivian’s platform continues to improve. Later this year, it will expand its hands-free, eyes-on driving system to more highways and select roads.

Next year, it plans to launch a hands-off, eyes-off feature under “controlled conditions” with current Gen 2 vehicles.

Rivian developed its Autonomy Platform entirely in-house. It’s fully integrated with 11 cameras and five radars for a complete 360-degree view. The company claims its in-house developed cameras “have the highest resolution of any vehicle in North America.” Meanwhile, the radars provide even more visibility, detecting objects further out.

At over 200 trillion operations per second, Rivian says the on-board compute module is likely the most powerful computer its customers own.

Wait there’s more

The software update also adds a new “Rally” driving mode for performance dual-motor vehicles. When off-road mode is active, you can now select Rally Mode, which tightens the steering and throttle response for driving on ice, mud, dirt, asphalt, etc.

We knew a Performance Upgrade would also be available in the new update after Rivian’s head of software, Wassym Bensaid, confirmed it earlier this month.

Unlike before, Rivian drivers can now add the Performance Upgrade even after they’ve purchased the vehicle. Gen 1 and Gen 2 Dual-Motor vehicles with the Standard, Large, and Max battery pack are eligible for the upgrade.

For $5,000 (CAD 7,200), the upgrade will “make your vehicle instantly quicker, sportier and more powerful,” unlocking up to 665 horsepower and 829 lb-ft of torque.

You also gain three new drive modes: Sport, Rally, and Soft Sand. Owners can purchase the Performance upgrade directly from their Rivian account page or mobile app, which will be delivered through a software update.

Rivian didn’t stop with that. It also added the ability to change your wheel type in the settings for a more accurate range estimate.

Several other new features were added to make your everyday drive safer and smarter. Like Tesla vehicles, the side mirrors now automatically tilt down when you shift into reverse so you can see the road behind you.

If you forgot to close the charge port door, no worries. You can now do it remotely through the app with the push of a button. And don’t forget the new “Go Chime,” which gives you a (gentle) reminder that the car ahead of you is moving. It’s available on Gen 2 models and will roll out to Gen 1 soon.