Rivian to Roll Out Over-the-Air Updates Enhancing Vehicle Range and Speed

Rivian Unveils Performance Upgrade for R1T and R1S Models

Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has announced plans to offer a Performance upgrade for its R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV models, aiming to boost their range, performance, and power output.

The Performance upgrade will bring several notable changes to the vehicles. The 0-60 mph time is set to decrease from 4.5 seconds to 3.4 seconds, while torque will increase from 610 lb-ft to 829 lb-ft. Horsepower will also see a significant jump, rising from 533 hp to 665 hp.

Rivian's Senior Vice President of Software, Wassym Bensaid, confirmed that certain R1T and R1S models will be able to unlock additional battery capacity later this year. However, details about how much extra range will be unlocked, the exact timing, or official pricing for these upgrades have yet to be announced.

The Performance upgrade could be offered as a one-time purchase for existing owners or as a subscription model, but the pricing for these options remains undisclosed.

Until now, customers had to choose the Performance package at the time of purchase or select an inventory vehicle with it activated. But with the upcoming OTA update, owners of standard models will have the opportunity to upgrade post-purchase through the vehicle's infotainment system.

The Performance package will also introduce two new drive modes: Sport and Soft Sand. These modes are expected to enhance the driving experience, offering improved handling and traction in various terrains.

The Performance upgrade strategy could provide an avenue for future revenue for Rivian, especially as a new player in the market. By offering these upgrades, Rivian aims to simplify production by reducing the number of different battery configurations needed on the assembly line.

Moreover, Rivian's Standard+ owners, who currently have a software-locked Large pack, are also expected to gain the option to expand their available range.

Rivian's OTA updates have been a key part of its strategy, allowing owners to improve their vehicles' range and performance through software upgrades. As per the latest information, these updates are provided free of charge, with no distinct paid pricing models publicly detailed for these specific upgrades.

The upcoming OTA update, version 2025.06, will introduce the Performance upgrade for dual-motor R1T and R1S models. This update is expected to be a significant step forward for Rivian, offering substantial power output enhancements for its R1T and R1S models.

As Rivian continues to innovate and push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, the Performance upgrade is a testament to the company's commitment to delivering exceptional vehicles that meet the evolving needs of its customers.