EV startup Rivian continues to add new features to its R1T pickup truck and R1S three-row SUV.
The latest is a snow mode which, as the name suggests, is designed for driving in snow.
Rivian said Monday that the new snow mode, available via an over-the-air update, makes it easier to deal with wintry conditions like snow, slush and ice, but only on the road. For wintry off-road conditions, Rivian recommends using the existing off-road all-terrain mode.
Rivian introduces snow mode on R1T and R1S
Rivian said that Snow mode introduces more relaxed brake and throttle responses and reduced regenerative braking power for more precise control on low-grip surfaces. The mode also introduces a more seamless transfer to the Auto Hold feature, which Rivian says results in more controlled stops in slippery conditions.
The latest software update brings additional features designed for cold conditions. Rivian owners can use an app to remotely warm up the cabin (including seat and steering wheel warmers) and defrost the windows and side mirrors.
Rivian also announced on Monday that previous OTA updates have resulted in overall efficiencies. Speaking of things like improved battery management, energy recovery and ride height strategy, Rivian said the EPA-rated ranges for the R1T and R1S configured with the quad motor, 135kWh battery and 21-inch street wheels are now 328 Miles and 321 miles, respectively, versus 314 miles and 316 miles previously. The new figures have yet to appear on the EPA website.
