Upcoming Rivian Models May Incorporate Wireless Steering Systems
Rivian, the American electric vehicle manufacturer, is developing a steer-by-wire (SBW) system for its electric vehicles, a technology that could revolutionise the driving experience.
The upcoming R2 crossover, scheduled for a 2026 release, may debut with the SBW system. This technology, which replaces the physical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels with electronic actuators, could significantly change how Rivian's electric vehicles handle and feel on the road.
The SBW system could provide packaging freedom by removing bulky mechanical components, freeing space for other technologies. Weight savings resulting from the SBW system could enhance the efficiency and range of Rivian's electric vehicles.
Moreover, the SBW technology in Rivian's vehicles could be defined by improved integration with driver-assistance systems and future autonomous driving features. This could lead to sharper responsiveness and potentially even a more enjoyable driving experience.
Rivian's job postings suggest that SBW is a critical technology for the company's future vehicles. A Senior Staff Technical Program Manager - Steer Actuator System job posting on Rivian Forums hints at Rivian's plans for the SBW system. A second job listing for a Sr. Mechanical Design & Release Engineer - Steering mentions both steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering.
Rear-wheel steering paired with SBW could be introduced for larger, next-generation versions of the R1T and R1S, potentially making them more nimble in tight spaces by shrinking turning radiuses. Rear-wheel steering could improve maneuverability for Rivian's larger models like the R1T pickup and R1S SUV. Such updates for the R1T and R1S might not arrive until the next major refresh, likely closer to 2028.
Innovative steering designs such as compact yokes or variable-ratio wheels could be implemented with the SBW system, offering sharper, more responsive handling and customizable steering feel.
The language in Rivian's job postings suggests that SBW is a critical technology for the company's future vehicles. The successful candidate for the Senior Staff Technical Program Manager - Steer Actuator System job would oversee the SBW subsystem from concept to launch.
Rivian is currently developing a steer-by-wire system, but it is expected to take at least a year or two before it appears in production vehicles, meaning it likely won't be widely implemented until around 2026-2027. Specifically for the R1 lineup, steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering updates are anticipated closer to 2028.
Regarding the upcoming smaller R2 crossover, it is a possible candidate for receiving the steer-by-wire system, but no exact timeline or confirmation has been given. Since Rivian is only now actively working on this technology, it may still be several years before the R2 features it—potentially after the initial launch of that model.
Steer-by-wire technology is slowly making its way into the automotive sector, with Tesla's Cybertruck being the only production vehicle in North America currently using it, while Lexus plans to launch one soon. Introducing SBW on a more affordable model could help Rivian differentiate itself in the crowded EV market.
In summary, Rivian’s steer-by-wire is in development with production implementation expected minimum 1-2 years from now, but the earliest concrete application in their current vehicles is projected around 2028, while the R2 crossover could see it later depending on development progress.
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