theweeklydriver.com
Photo: Rivian Newsroom
Photo: Rivian Newsroom
The more advanced eyes-off system, aimed for 2026, would elevate Rivian’s offerings to Level 3 autonomy. At this level, drivers can take their eyes off the road but must still be prepared to regain control when prompted.
Rivian’s autonomous driving technology is part of a broader industry trend towards self-driving vehicles. The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) defines six levels of driving automation, from Level 0 (no automation) to Level 5 (full automation).
Photo: Rivian Newsroom
Photo: Rivian Newsroom
Level 1 represents the lowest level of automation. Vehicles at this level have a single automated aspect that assists the driver. This can include features like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assistance, but not both simultaneously.
Level 2 systems, often referred to as “hands-free” or “driver assist” technologies, can control both steering and acceleration/deceleration but require constant driver supervision. Examples include GM’s Super Cruise, Ford’s BlueCruise, and Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature.
Photo: Rivian Newsroom
Level 3 systems, sometimes called “eyes-off” technology, allow drivers to divert their attention from driving tasks but must be ready to intervene when requested. This level of autonomy is considered challenging due to the complexities of safely transferring control back to a potentially distracted driver.
Photo: Rivian Newsroom