In a significant development, rivian just rolled out a significant software update that’s giving owners of its R1 electric trucks and SUVs a bunch of reasons to smile. The 2026.03 update proves why buying an electric vehicle from a tech-savvy company matters—you’re not stuck with what you got on day one. Instead of waiting for a new model year or paying a mechanic to tinker under the hood, Rivian owners can simply download these improvements straight to their vehicles. It’s the kind of thing that makes owning an EV feel genuinely modern.
More Power and Sharper Performance for All R1 Owners
The headliner feature in this update is Launch Mode becoming available to everyone. Previously, only the beefiest R1 models with three or four motors could access this feature, but now even owners with dual-motor setups get in on the action. What does Launch Mode actually do? It sharpens your throttle response when you’re in Sport Mode, giving your truck or SUV snappier acceleration off the line. The system is smart enough to tailor the performance boost based on your specific battery type—whether you’ve got the efficient LFP chemistry or the higher-performance NMC setup. For folks who like a little extra punch when merging on the highway or just want to feel that electric torque, this is a welcome addition.
Smarter Suspension Adjustments and Winter Capabilities
Rivian also heard owners asking for more flexibility with their suspension, and they delivered. Sport Mode now includes a new ride height option that keeps your R1 at standard height while still delivering the tighter handling you want. No more choosing between performance and looking like a practical truck or SUV. Additionally, the update addresses a real pain point for folks in colder climates: understanding how much battery power goes toward keeping your pack warm. The driver display now shows a helpful blue graphic that breaks down exactly how much energy is being burned for heating. Rivian’s engineers also optimized battery conditioning across the board, so charging and driving in winter should feel noticeably better, especially if you live anywhere that actually gets snow.
Control Your Rivian from Your Wrist—No Phone Required
Apple Watch users are about to get a whole lot more convenience. The new Rivian app coming to Apple Watch lets you handle important vehicle tasks without fishing your phone out of your pocket. Lock and unlock your R1, set up a digital key so your watch grants you passive entry when you approach the vehicle, and monitor your battery charge level right from your wrist. You can even adjust the cabin climate, activate Gear Guard security features, and check your vehicle status without breaking stride. This matters more than it sounds, especially if you’re heading out on an adventure and don’t want to risk losing your phone or having it die at an inconvenient moment.
Enhanced Ground Clearance Options for Better Accessibility
The update introduces a new ‘Lowered’ mode that drops your R1 an additional inch below the existing low setting, making it easier for passengers with mobility challenges to get in and out. This extra lowering works across all drive modes and even on uneven surfaces, so you’re not locked into one setup. Here’s the bonus: you can now switch between ride heights and even swap between different drive modes while using Highway Assist or the hands-free driving features. That means you can lower your vehicle for easier entry while still maintaining the assistance features, then raise it back up when you hit rough terrain. It’s the kind of thoughtful design detail that shows Rivian is paying attention to real-world usage.
Key Takeaways
- Launch Mode is now available to all R1 owners, giving dual-motor models sharper acceleration performance in Sport Mode for the first time.
- New winter battery graphics and improved cold-weather conditioning help owners understand and maximize their EV range in freezing temperatures.
- Apple Watch integration lets you control your R1 remotely—lock/unlock doors, check battery status, and manage climate without your phone.
