Over-the-air software program and firmware updates have the potential to treatment points, add options, or simply merely make a automobile higher. 

To this point Rivian’s already managed all the above with its R1T electrical pickup and R1S electrical SUV. With an replace this week Rivian has improved the cold-weather livability of its vans with a number of new options; and with latest updates plus some paperwork filed with the federal government, it’s boosted the precise EPA vary rankings of its vans. 

Collectively via earlier over-the-air updates, Rivian says that it has improved its automobile effectivity for the reason that R1T and R1S first underwent EPA testing sufficient to warrant a retest. It’s added incremental vary via improved energy administration for auxiliary hundreds, a modified ride-height technique for the suspension, improved battery administration and charging, and improved power recuperation. And individually, whereas bodily battery packs have maintained the identical complete capability, Rivian has elevated the usable capability. 

2023 Rivian R1S

In line with Rivian, the official EPA vary rankings in quad-motor, Giant pack type, with 21-inch street wheels, now stand at 328 miles for the R1T and 321 miles for the R1S—up from 314 and 316 miles, respectively. These improved rankings aren’t but listed on the EPA’s web site, however Rivian does verify them in its construct instrument. 

With Rivian’s newest replace—2022.47.00, issued Monday—it additionally confirms improved battery longevity, sturdiness, and regenerative braking efficiency, with enhanced brake regen for longer durations. 

Rivian Snow mode

It’s particularly the season, although, for the brand new devoted drive mode added with this newest replace: Snow mode.

“Snow mode makes driving in snowy, slushy or icy on-road circumstances simpler by softening the best way your R1 hurries up and slows down,” states Rivian. 

Particularly, it dials in softer accelerator response, totally different settings for the traction system, and a low brake-regeneration setting that’s unique to this mode. It additionally “creates a extra seamless transition to the auto maintain operate for extra managed stops when driving on snowy, slushy, or icy on-road circumstances,” Rivian says. 

“Snow mode is supposed solely for driving on roads and highways and isn’t meant for off-road eventualities,” explains the corporate. “We advocate utilizing the Off-Street All-Terrain drive mode for snowy off-road adventures.”

Rivian app – distant/preconditioning options

Moreover, the Rivian app (model 1.9 and later) now contains some winter-weather must-haves for EV drivers: distant cabin preconditioning, together with distant defrosting/deicing of home windows and mirrors, plus the power to activate particular person seat heaters and steering-wheel heating remotely. All of those are gadgets that can assist present a toasty automobile earlier than heading out on a visit, and assist protect battery power for the journey itself.