Rivian’s software chief reveals plans for enhancing EV features including adaptive battery tracking and “drone mode.”
Rivian’s head of software development, Wassym Bensaid, announces intriguing software updates for the R1T and R1S.
The updates comprise adaptive battery range tracking and a unique “drone mode” with augmented reality.
Rivian, a notable player in the electric vehicle domain, has announced its intentions to introduce substantial software upgrades for its all-electric R1T pickup and R1S SUV models. These developments were divulged by Wassym Bensaid, the company’s head of software development, during an unexpected appearance in an analyst call. Bensaid provided a glimpse into the forthcoming enhancements, which encompass adaptive battery range tracking and the introduction of a unique “drone mode” that integrates augmented reality, as per reports cited from Automotive News through Bloomberg.
2022 Rivian R1S | Photo: Rivian
Although comprehensive details about these updates remain under wraps, the concept of adaptive battery range tracking holds significant potential to greatly benefit EV owners by offering precise and real-time remaining mileage data directly on the vehicle’s dashboard.
Rivian R1S | Photo: Rivian
Wassym Bensaid underlined the pivotal role of Rivian’s software capabilities, identifying them as a distinguishing factor that will gain escalating prominence as electric vehicles continue to advance in complexity. Post the launch of the R1T in 2021, Rivian has executed 22 substantial software updates, embedding functionalities like Camp Mode, Snow Mode, Bird’s Eye View, and the innovative Kneel Mode, which facilitates vehicle entry and exit by lowering the ride height approximately by 10 inches.
Rivian R1T | Photo: Rivian
Bensaid also underscored the company’s control over the complete software stack and the majority of in-vehicle computers, underscoring Rivian’s comprehensive integration of software and hardware components.
Rivian EDV-700 in Amazon livery | Photo: Rivian
During the same analyst call, Rivian made an upward adjustment to its production forecast for the current year, increasing it to 52,000 units from the earlier projection of 50,000 EVs. CEO RJ Scaringe emphasized the pivotal role of software and electronics in the upcoming R2-based vehicles, which will initiate with an SUV set to debut next year. Scaringe highlighted the significance of possessing robust software capabilities in the present automotive landscape.
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In the second quarter, Rivian delivered impressive results by manufacturing 13,992 vehicles and successfully delivering 12,640 units, exceeding initial estimates from Wall Street.
Rivian R1T and R1S | Photo: Rivian
Rivian’s manufacturing facility located in Normal, Illinois, serves as the hub for producing the R1S SUV, R1T pickup, and Amazon EDV. Additionally, Rivian undertakes the in-house production of the Enduro drivetrain, powering both the electric van and the dual-motor versions of their passenger vehicles.
