Rivian tests point-to-point hands-free driving in 2026

Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe emphasized the company's autonomous vehicle ambitions during an earnings call, highlighting an upcoming point-to-point driving feature. Rivian faces a high-stakes challenge as it attempts to develop custom chips and expensive lidar sensors for full-stack autonomy while simultaneously scaling production of its R2 SUV. Executive Derek Mulvey noted that autonomy is seen as a key product differentiator, though the company's financial gamble will test its resources over the next two years. Open article →