Our latest software update makes getting into and out of your Rivian even easier. Once parked, Kneel mode puts the R1T and R1S in a low ride height (approximately 10 inches from the ground*) and keeps your truck and SUV in that position until you start driving again.
To activate the mode, tap the ‘Settings’ gear icon in the lower Center Display and navigate to the Vehicle and Access screens. Once there, you can quickly toggle it on and off. For safety and convenience reasons, Kneel mode is only available when your Rivian is in All-Purpose and Conserve with a Standard ride height. Like our recent camp leveling feature, the mode uses your Rivian’s independent air suspension — only in this case the vehicle stays at a low uniform height to make it easier for people and pets to hop in and out.
In addition to Kneel mode, this software update also brings new features and functionality to our Gear Guard security system, including an easier way to navigate and find recorded videos of interest, as well as the ability to turn Gear Guard on and off from your phone.
Here’s more of what you need to know about Kneel mode.
What it does:
Kneel mode lowers the height of your Rivian to make it easier for you, your family and friends to get in and out. It also makes it easier to stow and retrieve any luggage or gear you might be carrying in the front trunk, bed or rear cargo area of the R1T and R1S.
What it does to the vehicle:
When Kneel mode is activated and your Rivian is in Conserve or All-Purpose with a standard ride height, the vehicle will lower as much as 1.4-inches when you park. Lowering typically takes around 5 seconds.
If someone opens a door before full lowering has completed, the process will pause. Once everyone has left the vehicle and the doors are shut, it will resume and remain at the lowered position until you start driving again. Just shift your R1T or R1S out of park, and the vehicle will start auto-raising from Kneel to standard ride height once it reaches 5 mph.
When to use it:
In addition to helping passengers and pets to get in and out, Kneel mode makes it easier to load and unload gear without having to switch into another drive mode with a low ride height.
When not to use it:
Kneel mode isn’t available when certain drive modes are in use — for example, when your vehicle is in Off-Road or Towing. In these situations, changing the ride height could be harmful to your Rivian or the load you’re towing. Kneel mode is also unavailable when using Sport mode because your Rivian is already set to a low ride height.
If Kneel mode is activated and you want to quickly cancel it in a specific instance, you can press the right scroll wheel and your Rivian will raise back to its previous height.
Read the full details of this software update by clicking here for R1T and here for R1S.
* If your Rivian has the 21-inch Road or 22-inch Sport Wheel and Tire Sets.
© 2026 Rivian
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