Photo: RivianTrackr via YouTube
After testing internally the 2024.03 software update, Rivian pushed it to customers' vehicles as the 2024.03.02 release. The update introduces new features, the promise of upcoming support for streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, and a convenience feature for those who love to camp.
At the end of January, Rivian released 2024.03 software for internal testing. The update introduced quick controls, individual passenger windows locking, ride quality improvements, and a mysterious "Gear Guard's Late-Night Adventure" feature that nobody knew what it was doing. Now, as the EV startup rolled out the update to customers as the 2024.03.02 build, we can say that many will dismiss this mysterious feature as useless. However, it hints at a much more significant change coming soon.
The "Gear Guard's Late-Night Adventure" is basically a movie clip and nothing more. You will find it in the Gear Guard starred clips, and for now, it's only one video titled "Late Night Road Trip." The video is already known from the Rivian's YouTube channel, so it doesn't look like a big deal. However, it hints at the upcoming entertainment capabilities of the Rivian infotainment system. It paves the way for more options, including streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. This is a welcome addition to the Rivian infotainment system.
With this software update, Rivian also improves Ride Feel and Ride Height for on-road drive modes. The three modes available, Firm, Moderate (new addition), and Soft, are now even more comfortable. People who tested it say the Firm mode is surprisingly good, while Soft mode turns the Rivian into a magic carpet. The update also improves the Soft Sand mode developed during the Rebelle Rally, which Rivian won in 2023. According to the 2024.03.02 release notes, this means increased maneuverability in the sand and when cresting dunes.
One of the more peculiar features introduced by this software version is only documented in the Canadian release notes. According to them, Rivian EVs can now drive up to 10 kph (6 mph) with the lights in Off or Parking mode. This is helpful when camping, allowing you to drive into the campsite at night without disturbing other campers. If you think this is a minor improvement, note that Rivian was forced to halt deliveries in Canada before offering this feature to appease Transport Canada officials.
Besides the update pushed to vehicles, Rivian also offered an overhaul for its mobile app. With the 2.6.0 version, the Rivian app offers widgets and a new health center. Even more so, if you have multiple Rivian EVs, you can long-press the widget to switch between vehicles. The Rivian Health Center provides information about your vehicle, including software updates, maintenance, tire pressure, and Gear Guard status.
Finally, the latest Rivian app introduces references to NACS, including a nifty animation showing how to use an NACS to CCS adapter. The graphics show an adapter similar to the one Ford recently announced. The app also reveals that the adapter will only work with an NACS fast charger, not AC chargers. This basically rules out using the adapter at Tesla destination chargers. The app also includes references to Plug-n-Charge for Tesla Supercharger via the Rivian mobile app, similar to how Ford implemented Tesla API.
The "Gear Guard's Late-Night Adventure" is basically a movie clip and nothing more. You will find it in the Gear Guard starred clips, and for now, it's only one video titled "Late Night Road Trip." The video is already known from the Rivian's YouTube channel, so it doesn't look like a big deal. However, it hints at the upcoming entertainment capabilities of the Rivian infotainment system. It paves the way for more options, including streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. This is a welcome addition to the Rivian infotainment system.
With this software update, Rivian also improves Ride Feel and Ride Height for on-road drive modes. The three modes available, Firm, Moderate (new addition), and Soft, are now even more comfortable. People who tested it say the Firm mode is surprisingly good, while Soft mode turns the Rivian into a magic carpet. The update also improves the Soft Sand mode developed during the Rebelle Rally, which Rivian won in 2023. According to the 2024.03.02 release notes, this means increased maneuverability in the sand and when cresting dunes.
One of the more peculiar features introduced by this software version is only documented in the Canadian release notes. According to them, Rivian EVs can now drive up to 10 kph (6 mph) with the lights in Off or Parking mode. This is helpful when camping, allowing you to drive into the campsite at night without disturbing other campers. If you think this is a minor improvement, note that Rivian was forced to halt deliveries in Canada before offering this feature to appease Transport Canada officials.
Besides the update pushed to vehicles, Rivian also offered an overhaul for its mobile app. With the 2.6.0 version, the Rivian app offers widgets and a new health center. Even more so, if you have multiple Rivian EVs, you can long-press the widget to switch between vehicles. The Rivian Health Center provides information about your vehicle, including software updates, maintenance, tire pressure, and Gear Guard status.
Finally, the latest Rivian app introduces references to NACS, including a nifty animation showing how to use an NACS to CCS adapter. The graphics show an adapter similar to the one Ford recently announced. The app also reveals that the adapter will only work with an NACS fast charger, not AC chargers. This basically rules out using the adapter at Tesla destination chargers. The app also includes references to Plug-n-Charge for Tesla Supercharger via the Rivian mobile app, similar to how Ford implemented Tesla API.
In our new software update:
— Rivian (@Rivian) February 13, 2024
⚡ Improved Soft Sand mode developed during our Rebelle Rally win
⚡ New ride feel setting for on-road drive modes
⚡ Quick control shortcuts for features like Pet Comfort and Car Wash mode
Full details: https://t.co/SUNMvemF87 pic.twitter.com/teEiOeopph
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