A class action lawsuit has been filed against Rivian, alleging that the company misrepresented the self-driving capabilities of its R1T truck and R1S SUV. Customers claim that the early models of these vehicles do not possess the promised level of autonomous driving capabilities. The complaint asserts that Rivian indicated these first-generation vehicles would be able to operate with level 3 autonomy, which would allow them to steer, accelerate, and brake without driver input.
According to the plaintiffs, the vehicles were manufactured without the necessary hardware, cameras, and sensors to support such functionality. They argue that no software updates can enable the Gen 1 vehicles to meet the advertised standards of hands-free operation. The lawsuit suggests that Rivian was aware that these vehicles could never achieve level 3 autonomy yet continued to promote their capabilities to drive sales.
Rivian introduced a "universal hands-free driving" software update for its second-generation R1 models and R2 series late last year. However, the company has not responded to requests for comments regarding the ongoing legal proceedings.