Rivian faces class‑action lawsuit over misleading autonomous‑driving claims

Customers have filed a class‑action lawsuit against electric‑vehicle maker Rivian, alleging the company misrepresented the autonomous‑driving capabilities of its first‑generation R1T pickup and R1S SUV. The complaint says Rivian advertised that the vehicles could achieve Level 3 hands‑free operation, but the models lack the necessary hardware, cameras, sensors and processing power. Plaintiffs argue that no software update can provide the promised functionality and that Rivian continued to market the vehicles as capable of such features.

Rivian introduced a “hands‑free” software update late last year, but the company states it is intended only for its upcoming R2 series and second‑generation R1 models, not the contested first‑generation trucks. The company declined to comment on the case, citing the ongoing legal process.