Rivian is stepping into the world of paid software unlocks, giving owners the option to improve their vehicles’ range and performance with an over-the-air (OTA) update. This move allows Rivian to tap into additional revenue streams while offering added flexibility to customers who may want to upgrade their vehicles after purchase, but at a price.
Unlocking More Range
According to Wassym Bensaid, Rivian’s Senior Vice President of Software, the automaker will allow owners of certain R1T and R1S models to unlock additional battery capacity later this year. Bensaid confirmed that the so-called Large+ battery pack, a software-limited version of the Max pack, will soon be eligible for a paid upgrade. Similarly, Standard+ owners, who currently have a software-locked Large pack, are also expected to gain the option to expand their available range.
Rivian has yet to announce more details about how much extra range will be unlocked, the exact timing, or official pricing for these upgrades.
Next on the roadmap!
— Wassym Bensaid (@WassymBensaid) March 1, 2025
Performance Upgrades
Beyond unlocking additional range, Rivian’s OTA update 2025.06 will introduce a Performance upgrade for dual-motor R1T and R1S models. Currently, Rivian customers must choose the Performance package at the time of purchase or select an inventory vehicle that already has it activated. The upcoming OTA update will allow these enhancements to be unlocked post-purchase through the vehicle’s infotainment system.
The Performance upgrade will significantly boost power output, increasing horsepower from 533 hp to 665 hp and torque from 610 lb-ft to 829 lb-ft. This enhancement shaves the 0-60 mph time from 4.5 seconds down to just 3.4 seconds. Additionally, buyers who opt for the Performance package will gain access to two new drive modes—Sport and Soft Sand—in addition to the existing All-Purpose, All-Terrain, and Snow modes.
No pricing for these upgrades was announced either. Rivian could offer it as a one-time purchase for existing owners or introduce a subscription model.
Rivian will soon be offering paid performance upgrades available via OTA software update 2025.06.
— Drive Tesla (@DriveTeslaca) February 28, 2025
Available to Dual Standard Plus, Large, Large Plus, and Max variants. Dual Standard packs.
✅0-60 as quick as 3.4 seconds
✅Increased torque up to 829 lb-ft
✅Increased horsepower… pic.twitter.com/LDfhbdGxOI
Why?
While some Rivian owners may appreciate the flexibility of post-purchase upgrades, others may be frustrated that their vehicles already have the extra capacity but require an additional payment to access it. This practice has been a point of debate in the EV world, with some arguing that it locks features behind artificial paywalls. However, this strategy has positives for the automaker, especially one trying to gain a foothold in the market, as it not only provides an avenue for future revenue but also simplifies production by reducing the number of different battery configurations needed on the assembly line.
