Rivian's Gen 2 Highway information now handles lane changes and speed adjustments on highways without driver input
Rivian released a Highway information update for its Gen 2 vehicles (the R1S and R1T) that expands what the driver information system can do on limited-access highways. The update allows the vehicle to change lanes, adjust speed based on traffic, and maintain position in the lane with less driver involvement than before. This is different from basic lane-keeping or cruise control — the system now makes decisions about when and how to move between lanes rather than just holding the current one.
The update rolled out through over-the-air software updates starting in late 2024. Rivian owners with compatible hardware receive the new capability automatically when their vehicle connects to WiFi and downloads the latest software package. The system works on interstate highways and divided highways where lane markings are clear and traffic flow is predictable.
Key Takeaways
- Highway information now changes lanes automatically when it detects slower traffic ahead, rather than requiring the driver to steer and signal manually.
- The system adjusts vehicle speed to match surrounding traffic flow and maintains safe following distance without constant pedal input from the driver.
- Highway information requires clear lane markings, good visibility, and a functioning camera and radar system — it does not work in heavy rain, fog, or on unmarked roads.
- The driver must keep hands on the wheel and remain attentive; the system is a driver information tool, not autonomous driving, and the driver is responsible for the vehicle at all times.
- The update comes through WiFi when the vehicle is parked and plugged in, and owners do not need to visit a service center or take any action to receive it.
How the Lane-Change Feature Works
When Highway information detects a slower vehicle ahead, it signals and moves into an adjacent lane without waiting for driver input. The system uses the vehicle's forward-facing camera and radar to identify the vehicle in front, check the adjacent lane for other traffic, and determine whether a lane change is safe. If the adjacent lane is clear and the maneuver meets the system's safety thresholds, it executes the change automatically.
The driver can override the system at any time by taking the wheel or pressing the brake pedal. If the driver touches the steering wheel, Highway information pauses and returns control to the driver. This design keeps the driver in the loop and prevents the system from making decisions the driver disagrees with. The driver can also disable Highway information entirely through the vehicle's touchscreen menu.
Speed and Following Distance Control
The updated system adjusts the vehicle's speed to match traffic flow rather than holding a single set speed. If traffic ahead slows, Highway information reduces speed gradually to maintain a safe following distance. When traffic clears, the system accelerates back toward the driver's preset cruising speed. This mimics how a human driver would ease off the accelerator when traffic thickens and speed up when the road opens.
The driver sets the desired cruising speed and following distance through the vehicle's display before activating Highway information. The system then manages acceleration and braking to stay within those parameters while responding to real-time traffic conditions. The driver can adjust the following distance setting at any time, and the system respects that preference when ready.
Hardware and System Requirements
Highway information relies on Rivian's camera and radar hardware, which comes standard on all Gen 2 vehicles. The system does not require additional sensors or hardware upgrades. However, the cameras and radar must be clean and properly calibrated for the system to function correctly. Dirt, snow, or condensation on the camera lenses can degrade performance or cause the system to disable itself temporarily.
The update is delivered through Rivian's over-the-air software system. Owners do not need to schedule service or visit a dealership. The vehicle downloads and installs the update automatically when connected to WiFi and parked. Rivian recommends plugging in while the update installs, though the vehicle can update while charging or straightforward parked with WiFi access.
When Highway information Does Not Work
Highway information is designed for clear-weather highway driving on well-marked roads. The system disables itself in heavy rain, fog, snow, or other conditions where visibility is poor. It also does not function on roads without clear lane markings, on surface streets, or on highways with complex geometry like tight curves or frequent on-ramps and off-ramps.
If the system detects a problem with its cameras, radar, or software, it will display a warning on the dashboard and disable Highway information until the issue is resolved. Owners can check the vehicle's status through the Rivian app or by reviewing the driver display. If a hardware issue persists, Rivian service can diagnose and repair the problem.
Driver Responsibility and Legal Status
Highway information is a driver information system, not autonomous driving. The driver remains responsible for the vehicle and must stay attentive at all times. The driver should keep their hands on the wheel, monitor the road, and be ready to take control when ready if needed. Rivian's terms of service and the vehicle manual make clear that the driver is liable for the vehicle's actions, and the system is designed to support the driver, not replace their judgment.
Different states have different rules about driver information systems. Some states require the driver to keep hands on the wheel at all times; others allow brief periods of hands-off operation. Owners should review their state's traffic laws and Rivian's guidance before using Highway information on public roads. The system is legal to use on highways in all U.S. states, but the driver's obligations and the system's limitations vary by location.
Comparing Highway information to Other Automakers' Systems
Tesla's Autopilot and Autosteer handle lane changes and speed adjustments on highways in a similar way. General Motors' Super Cruise and Ford's BlueCruise also offer hands-free highway driving with automatic lane changes. Rivian's Highway information is comparable in capability but uses different underlying technology and has different performance characteristics. The main difference is that some competing systems allow longer periods of hands-off driving, while Rivian's approach emphasizes driver attentiveness and control.
The update positions Rivian's Gen 2 vehicles alongside other premium electric vehicles in terms of driver information capability. Owners who have used similar systems on other vehicles will find Highway information familiar in operation, though the specific behavior and interface differ. Rivian continues to develop and refine the system through software updates, so capabilities may expand over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Highway information work on all highways?
Highway information works on limited-access highways with clear lane markings and good visibility. It does not function on surface streets, rural roads without markings, or highways with heavy traffic congestion or complex geometry. The system disables itself automatically when conditions are not suitable.
What happens if I take my hands off the wheel?
Highway information allows brief periods without hands on the wheel, but the system monitors driver attention through the steering wheel sensors. If the system detects that the driver is not paying attention or has hands off for too long, it will alert the driver and eventually disable itself. The driver must remain engaged and ready to take control.
Can I use Highway information in rain or snow?
Highway information disables itself in heavy rain, snow, or fog because the cameras and radar cannot reliably detect lane markings and other vehicles. Light rain may not disable the system, but visibility and performance degrade. Rivian recommends disabling Highway information and driving manually in poor weather.
Do I need to do anything to get the update?
No. The update installs automatically when your vehicle connects to WiFi. You do not need to visit a service center or take any action. straightforward park your vehicle with WiFi access, and it will read and install the update on its own schedule.
Is Highway information the same as full self-driving?
No. Highway information is a driver information system that helps manage speed and lane changes on highways. The driver remains responsible for the vehicle and must stay attentive. It is not autonomous driving, and the driver can take control at any time.