Rivian R1S and R1T get new features with the latest OTA update

The beauty of OTA updates for electric cars - when well executed - never ceases to amaze. Rvian just pushed a new software build (2023.06.02) to both of its electric cars - the R1S and R1T. Apart from the usual bug fixes, the company added some new convenience and safety features.

The good old key fob has proximity lock and unlock function has been extensively improved, until now this function was available with the use of mobile phones and the key fob performance was temperamental according to R1S and R1T owners. Not a huge upgrade but very convenient for sure, and the driver will get a prompt on a display when the key fob’s battery needs replacing - very neat.

The bigger and more important upgrade is the move for the sat nav search function to be powered by Google. The navigation will now automatically end guidance when the car senses it is parked near the destination. In addition, it is possible now to swap between charger status pins on the map and view charger information.

Tapping the stalk twice in the Rivian R1S and R1T activates the Highway Assist system and the activation now is much faster - it apparently takes only 1 second. The time for hands-off warning has been increased from 10 to 20 seconds as well.

Other smaller fixes include displaying correct radio frequency, and a progress bar for listening to audiobooks and podcasts. The front camera view has been upgraded as well for the drivers to be better able to judge a distance between the car and an obstacle.

Despite many delays with launching the R1S and R1T and despite much lower production volumes and long waiting times for the trucks, Rivian is keeping its promise of constantly updating and upgrading its vehicles. The company pushes software updates on a regular basis making sure its vehicles get better with time.

One of the most prominent updates recently added a Snow Mode when the car automatically recognizes slippery surfaces and adjusts regen braking and softens throttle response for a smoother driving experience. The Camp Mode lets the car level up automatically, making the overnight nap in the truck as good as it gets.

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