Rivian adds a new Sport Mode for the R1T/R1S and vehicle access from the Apple Watch

Rivian has just launched an interesting software update -2026.03- that deserves special mention, as it improves the performance, usability and connectivity of its vehicles. The improvements it includes also apply to the brand’s entire fleet, whether it is units of its R1T electric pickup or its R1S SUV, first or second generation.

The first improvement to highlight is the availability of a new dedicated application for the Apple Watch, with which it is possible to control various vehicle functions and access the vehicle using a digital key, all from the wrist, without needing to carry the mobile device -the iPhone in this case- in your pocket.

Thanks to this application, from the Apple watch it is possible, for example, to lock or unlock the doors, open the boot or remotely adjust the cabin temperature. The availability of this new application is very good news especially for owners of a first-generation R1T or R1S, as these vehicles did not support a digital key until now.

Important improvements affecting vehicle performance

Additionally, Rivian has extended the Sport Mode to all its Dual Motor vehicles with dual electric drive motors, whether they are first or second generation models. Let us recall that although Sport Mode already existed for the R1T and R1S, until now it was limited to the Performance and Quad-Motor versions. The availability of this new Sport Mode improves vehicle performance by optimising power delivery to achieve faster, more agile acceleration.

Rivian has also added an improvement much requested by many owners of an R1T/R1S and really simple. It is the ability to maintain the suspension height in the Standard position, preventing the vehicle from automatically returning to the original lower position as was the case until now.

The new suspension settings also affect the so-called Kneel Mode, which automatically lowers the suspension when entering or leaving the vehicle to make access easier. With the latest software update, a new Lower option is now added, which reduces ground clearance even further to increase comfort.

As regards vehicle performance improvements, it is also worth noting that the Launch Mode extends its availability to first-generation Quad-Motor versions and second-generation Dual-Motor Performance. To activate it, simply select Sport Mode, press the flag icon and hold down the brake and accelerator simultaneously.

Finally, it should be noted that Rivian has integrated several optimisations for using the vehicle in cold climates. An indicator now appears on the battery icon, both on the vehicle screen and in the mobile app, showing the energy consumed to maintain battery temperature. In addition, the reduction in vehicle range due to the cold is shown with blue shading, and battery preconditioning has been improved.