Rivian, the innovative electric vehicle manufacturer behind the R1S and R1T models, is rolling out a new feature designed to make EV ownership more affordable. The upcoming Smart Charging feature aims to reduce home EV charging costs by at least 20%. This feature is particularly relevant given that a significant portion of EV charging occurs at home. However, many EV owners miss out on the cost savings associated with off-peak electricity rates. Rivian’s solution seeks to automate this process, ensuring that owners can take full advantage of lower rates without manual intervention.
The introduction of this feature underscores Rivian’s commitment to not only producing high-quality electric vehicles but also enhancing the overall ownership experience. By addressing a common pain point – the cost of charging – Rivian is making EV ownership more attractive and sustainable for a broader audience. The Smart Charging feature is a testament to Rivian’s forward-thinking approach, combining technological innovation with practical solutions to everyday challenges.
The Smart Charging feature is designed to be seamless and user-friendly. It integrates directly with the Rivian smartphone app, allowing owners to set their charging preferences and schedules. Once configured, the system automatically charges the vehicle during off-peak hours, when electricity rates are typically lower. This automation ensures that owners consistently benefit from the lowest possible charging costs without needing to manually adjust their charging schedules.
According to Rivian’s software chief, Wassym Bensaid, a significant percentage of EV charging occurs at home, yet a large portion of these sessions do not align with the lowest utility rates. The Smart Charging feature addresses this discrepancy by intelligently managing the charging process. By leveraging the Rivian app, the system can communicate with the vehicle and the owner’s utility provider (where available) to optimize charging times based on real-time rate information. This ensures that the vehicle is always ready when needed while minimizing charging expenses.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Automatic Off-Peak Charging | Schedules charging during hours with the lowest electricity rates. |
| Smartphone App Integration | Allows users to set preferences and monitor charging schedules via the Rivian app. |
| Potential Savings | Aims to reduce home charging costs by at least 20%. |
The Smart Charging feature will be included in the upcoming over-the-air (OTA) software update, version 2025.34, for both Gen1 and Gen2 R1S and R1T models. While the update is currently in beta testing, according to Rivian Tracker, it promises a range of improvements and new functionalities beyond just smart charging. For pre-facelift models, the update will enhance the accuracy of battery range on arrival estimates by factoring in location air density, particularly beneficial for locations at higher elevations. Additionally, several bug fixes have been implemented to improve overall system stability.
For the newer Gen2 vehicles (those built from 2024 onwards), the update brings even more significant enhancements. The Co-Steer feature allows drivers to subtly adjust the vehicle’s position within a lane while Highway Assist is active, providing greater control without disengaging the system. Furthermore, the availability of Enhanced Highway Assist has been increased by up to 50%, especially on urban and suburban highways. Digital Key support is also being introduced, enabling owners to share digital versions of their vehicle keys with family and friends who have compatible Apple or Android devices. This comprehensive update demonstrates Rivian’s commitment to continuously improving its vehicles through software enhancements, adding value and convenience for its customers.
| Feature | Gen1 Models | Gen2 Models |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Improved Range Estimates | Yes | Yes |
| Co-Steer | No | Yes |
| Enhanced Highway Assist | No | Yes |
| Digital Key Support | No | Yes |
