Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has been hit with a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of misleading customers about the autonomous driving capabilities of its first-generation vehicles.

The legal action focuses on the R1T pickup truck and R1S sport utility vehicle.

According to the complaint, Rivian allegedly suggested that its Driver+ assistance system would eventually support advanced hands-free and eyes-off driving capabilities.

Plaintiffs argue that the company promoted these expectations through years of marketing efforts and public statements, encouraging consumers to purchase the vehicles.

The lawsuit contends that first-generation Rivian vehicles lack the hardware necessary to achieve Level 3 autonomous driving, a classification that allows vehicles to handle steering, acceleration, and braking under specific conditions without continuous driver involvement.

Plaintiffs claim the company knew these capabilities would not be achievable through future software updates.

Rivian has declined public comment on the allegations, citing ongoing litigation. The case includes claims of fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and unjust enrichment, with the plaintiffs requesting a jury trial.

The dispute follows previous legal challenges involving the company. Rivian previously agreed to settle a shareholder lawsuit related to pricing changes implemented for its vehicles, demonstrating the growing legal scrutiny facing electric vehicle manufacturers.

While Rivian’s latest-generation vehicles feature significantly enhanced sensor systems and advanced driver-assistance capabilities, the lawsuit centers on whether earlier customers were given unrealistic expectations regarding the future autonomy potential of their vehicles.

Source: TechCrunch