In the past, in order to add new features to or wring more performance out of your vehicle, you basically needed specialized software to unlock it and/or hope that the aftermarket offered a solution. Either way, you needed to be mechanically inclined, know someone who was, or take your vehicle to a shop to get the work done. Today, thanks to the advent of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and the rise of tech-forward brands like Rivian, improving on your vehicle is often only a download away.
Speaking of, Rivian has just launched software update 2026.03 for owners of its all-electric R1S SUV and R1T pickup, an update designed to improve upon and otherwise add new, usable features for those vehicles. One of the biggest is Launch Mode, which was previously only available for generation two models with tri- or quad-motor setups. With this new update, generation one owners and dual-motor owners will be able to take advantage of sharper throttle response tuned for the battery chemistry (either LFP or NMC) their electric luxury SUV or truck uses in Sport Mode.
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A new ride height for Sport Mode is now available as well. Instead of lowering the suspension, this new feature lets owners set their R1 to standard height and gain the suspension performance without sacrificing the utilitarian look.
The next useful feature is the addition of a new cold-weather indicator and battery graphic designed to help owners understand their winter range. The Rivian’s driver display will show a blue shaded graphic to indicate how much power is being used to heat the battery pack up and keep it warm for optimal power output. Rivian also says it has improved battery conditioning in cold climates for both charging and driving with the new 2026.03 update.
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Apple Watch owners will find a new Rivian app on their next mobile update that will allow Rivian R1 owners to control essential features from their wrist, all without needing to rely on (or worry about losing or breaking) their iPhones while out on an adventure and away from their vehicle. Owners will not only be able to lock and unlock their vehicles without pulling out their phones, but they’ll also have passive entry just by wearing their Apple Watch once they set up a digital key. They can also keep an eye on battery state of charge and status, turn on Gear Guard, control the cabin climate, and more.
The 2026.03 update will also add a lower Kneel Mode (somewhat unimaginatively called “Lowered”) that will drop the vehicle an additional inch from the height of the “Low” setting. This increases the accessibility for more users and works with all on-road Drive Modes as well as uneven surfaces. Another bit of ride height flexibility thanks to this new update is the ability to switch those heights and even Drive Modes on demand while using Highway Assist or Universal Hands-Free modes.
