Written by Cláudio Afonso | [email protected] | LinkedIn | X
Rivian‘s Vice President of Software Development, Wassym Bensaid, hosted a Q&A event in San Jose on Saturday, showcasing Rivian’s latest models, the R2 and R3X. During the event, Bensaid discussed the forthcoming facelifts for both Rivian R1 models, as well as new features and upgrades.
In an open discussion with Rivian owners and enthusiasts, Bensaid confirmed that video streaming will be released via an over-the-air (OTA) update this summer. Additionally, he announced that Rivian’s connectivity packages will also be available by then, including additional Driver+ features.
The automaker unveiled a new user experience during the launch of its upcoming R2 model, and it has been confirmed that both the R1S and R1T models will receive this upgrade via OTA in the near future.
Regarding the upcoming facelifts of Rivian’s R1 models, Bensaid disclosed that “about 80%” of the new features will be made available to the first version of R1 cars. This includes computer, sensor, and high-voltage charging hardware updates.
The next generation sensors in Rivian vehicles will allow the company to bring the Summon feature, which allows to autonomously navigate short distances without anyone behind the wheel. Additionally, SiriusXM and Pandora Radio were confirmed on Rivian vehicles later this year.
Bensaid joined Rivian in October 2019 as Senior Director, System Architecture and Integration. After a short period as a Senior director for Software and technology, Bensaid was promoted in October 2020 to Vice President of Software development.
The company has recently expanded its leasing program to include four additional U.S. states, granting access to the $7,500 EV tax credit. The addition of Maryland, New Mexico, Virginia, and Alaska brings the total number of states on the list to 30.
Over the last weeks, the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer led by RJ Scaringe has been spotted multiple times testing its highly awaited updated versions in Palo Alto, California.
Following its unveiling event in early March unveiling the next-generation R2, R3, and R3x models, Rivian is now dedicated to road tests of its R1S and R1T models which are expected to be launched in the second half of the year.
Rivian’s recent update to the NHTSA’s VIN database reveals preparations for the introduction of a Tri-Motor variant and a new “Premium” trim level for the upcoming version of its model R1S and R1T.
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Rivian’s plant in Illinois is currently temporary closed until the end of the month for the implementation of new technologies and production methods aimed at substantial cost reduction.
As initially reported by EV, the company started recently a new round of layoffs to “support our goal to be gross margin positive by the end of the year,” as said in an email to Reuters.
NEVER MISS AN UPDATE
The company recently announced that until the end of April, Rivian‘s R1T and R1S vehicles ordered from the automaker’s inventory will include a complimentary XPEL Stealth paint protective film (PPF) valued at $5,000.
Last week, the company reported 13,980 vehicles produced in the first quarter of the year of which 13,588 were delivered to its customers. Despite having previously guided a 10-15% quarter over quarter drop from the fourth quarter, Rivian is on track and reaffirmed its 2024 production guidance of 57,000 vehicles.
Written by Cláudio Afonso | [email protected] | LinkedIn | X
