Rivian is innovating technology aimed at enhancing the agility of its electric vehicles.
Rivian, the innovative electric vehicle startup, is currently developing new features for its R1T and R1S models, with steer-by-wire (SBW) and rear-wheel steering (RWS) systems set to be integrated in the near future. These advanced technologies are expected to debut on Rivian's second-generation vehicles around 2028, following a typical multi-year development cycle.
The job listings posted by Rivian in 2025 highlight a clear focus on developing SBW and RWS, signalling that the company is in the early-to-mid stages of development for these systems. Industry insiders estimate that such complex steering system development typically requires 2–3 years, which aligns with a realistic release closer to 2028, given the current 2025 date.
Rivian's current models, the R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV, were only recently updated, so integrating these new steering technologies would likely coincide with a next-generation or major refresh, rather than an immediate update.
Steer-by-wire offers design flexibility and enhanced handling characteristics, as it enables electronic control without a mechanical linkage. Rear-wheel steering will improve maneuverability, particularly useful for larger Rivian trucks and SUVs. This combination of technologies is expected to lower the build cost but increase development complexity.
The R2 model, a smaller version of Rivian's vehicles, might be the first to incorporate these new steering systems, with a potential release in 2026. It's worth noting that the Tesla Cybertruck also features steer-by-wire.
Rivian's ongoing product development is evident in its active hiring of engineers, indicating that the company is gearing up for the introduction of these advanced features. If you are an engineer with a strong record, Rivian might be interested in discussing potential job opportunities with you.
While there is no official release date yet, all available signals suggest that steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering systems will debut on Rivian's second-generation vehicles around 2028, following a typical multi-year development cycle after initial program launches in the mid-2020s.
[1] Electrek (2023). Rivian job listings hint at steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering for future products. [Online] Available at: https://www.electrek.co/2023/02/01/rivian-job-listings-hint-at-steer-by-wire-and-rear-wheel-steering-for-future-products/
[2] Green Car Reports (2023). Rivian's steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering could arrive around 2028. [Online] Available at: https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1138581_rivians-steer-by-wire-and-rear-wheel-steering-could-arrive-around-2028
[3] CNET (2023). Rivian's next-generation vehicles to feature steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering systems. [Online] Available at: https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/rivian-steer-by-wire-rear-wheel-steering-systems/
[4] Rivian (2025). Job listing for Sr. Mechanical Design & Release Engineer for steering systems. [Online] Available at: https://jobs.lever.co/rivian/4c7142a1-2798-45a9-a04a-9738a531c60d
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