Key Takeaways
- Rivian announces over-the-air upgrades for R1S and R1T, enhancing performance and range.
- Upgrade increases horsepower from 533 to 665 hp, reducing 0-60 mph time to 3.4 seconds.
- Next upgrade aims to unlock full battery capacity for vehicles with Large+ battery packs.
Performance Enhancements for Rivian Vehicles
Rivian’s Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, announced significant over-the-air software upgrades for the R1S SUV and R1T pickup truck via a recent post on X. The enhancements, set for the upcoming 2025.06 release, primarily apply to models equipped with the standard Dual-Motor powertrain, boosting power output to the Dual-Motor Performance level. This upgrade elevates horsepower from 533 to an impressive 665 hp, while simultaneously cutting the 0-60 mph acceleration time from 4.5 seconds to a remarkable 3.4 seconds.
Details surrounding the cost of this software upgrade remain unclear, although Bensaid noted that owners could utilize Rivian Rewards points for the transaction. Typically, selecting the Dual-Motor Performance option over the standard powertrain involves a $5,000 premium at the time of purchase. It’s important to mention that this upgrade will be compatible only with vehicles equipped with the Standard+, Large, Large+, and Max battery packs. Models that feature the base Standard Pack battery will not be eligible for this enhancement due to limitations in the LFP chemistry, as highlighted by Bensaid.
In a follow-up post on March 1, Bensaid indicated that plans are in place to issue a further software upgrade aimed at unlocking additional capacity for vehicles equipped with the Large+ battery. This battery variant is essentially a 141.5-kwh Max Pack but is currently limited by software to a capacity of 109.4 kWh found in the Large Pack. Last summer, Rivian had hinted at offering this Large+ option to select customers to boost production figures. Discussions are ongoing regarding the potential for allowing existing owners to upgrade and unlock the full capacity of their battery, but specific details—including any associated costs—have yet to be confirmed.
These developments underscore Rivian’s commitment to enhancing vehicle performance and user experience through innovative software solutions. The dual focus on power and range reflects the company’s ongoing effort to stay competitive in the electric vehicle market, where performance metrics are becoming increasingly vital to customers.
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