New Software: Snow Mode

Adding control and comfort in snow, slush and ice

By Rivian

December 19^th, 2022

Our latest software update includes a new drive mode to help navigate wintery on-road conditions with confidence.

With Snow mode engaged, your R1T and R1S are optimized to handle snowy, slushy and icy on-road conditions. In addition to softening the pedal response for smoother acceleration, our tenth dedicated drive mode also helps prevent slip and wheel lock when decelerating by using a new ‘Low’ default Brake Regeneration setting and a more seamless transition to the vehicles’ Auto Hold functionality for more controlled stops in slippery conditions.

To complement Snow mode, we’re also introducing new options for warming up your R1 cabin before leaving on (or returning from) a wintery adventure. Drivers can now use their Rivian mobile app to remotely defrost or de-ice their windows and mirrors, as well as individually turn on seat and steering wheel heating.

Here’s everything else you need to know about Snow mode.

What it does:

Snow mode makes driving in snowy, slushy or icy on-road conditions easier by softening the way your R1 speeds up and slows down.

What it does to the vehicle:

Once selected, the new drive mode relaxes the accelerator pedal response for smoother, more gradual acceleration and deceleration in wintery on-road conditions. Snow mode also introduces a new low Regenerative Brake setting, which is exclusive to this mode.

When to use it:

Rivian drivers are encouraged to use Snow mode any time they want an added boost of confidence and control when driving in active winter weather conditions. The vehicle will automatically nudge you to switch to the new mode if you’re in Conserve and it detects wheel slip and an ambient outdoor temperature of 34 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.

While our All-Purpose drive mode and 20-inch All-Terrain tires* are still capable of handling a variety of winter road conditions, Snow mode was developed specifically for those who want a little more driver-focused control.

When not to use it:

Snow mode is meant solely for driving on roads and highways and is not meant for off-road scenarios. We recommend using the Off-Road All-Terrain drive mode for snowy off-road adventures.

Read the full details of this software update by clicking here for R1T and here for R1S in the US. If you're in Canada, click here for R1T and here for R1S in French.

RESERVE AN R1T RESERVE AN R1S

* Rivian’s 20-inch All-Terrain tires are three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) rated, which means they are expected to provide improved snow traction beyond a standard M+S branded all-season tire.