Paid Upgrade Boosts R1T & R1S Performance
Rivian is rolling out a $5,000 software upgrade that increases horsepower, torque, and acceleration in its dual-motor R1T and R1S models. Announced by Rivian’s Chief Software Officer Wassym Bensaid, the Dual Performance upgrade is part of the 2025.06 software update and brings a serious power boost.
With this upgrade, the base dual-motor models jump from 533 hp and 610 lb-ft to 665 hp and 829 lb-ft, slashing the 0-60 mph time from 4.5 seconds to just 3.4 seconds. That’s a massive performance jump for an electric pickup and SUV.
For comparison, Rivian’s tri-motor models pump out 850 hp and 1,103 lb-ft of torque, hitting 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line quad-motor version pushes 1,025 hp and 1,198 lb-ft, dropping the acceleration time to just 2.5 seconds. While those high-powered versions remain Rivian’s flagship options, the new upgrade closes the gap between the base and premium models—if you’re willing to pay.
Who Gets the Upgrade?
Not all Rivian owners can unlock the extra power. The Standard+, Large, Large+, and Max battery pack models are eligible, but the Standard Pack models won’t qualify due to their LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery chemistry. LFP cells are known for their durability and longevity but don’t deliver the same power output as Rivian’s other battery packs.
Bensaid also revealed that a separate update for the Large+ Pack is coming soon. This battery option is a 141.5-kWh Max Pack with its usable capacity software-limited to 109.4 kWh, making it identical to the Large Pack. Rivian originally offered this setup to meet demand while keeping production efficient, but now, the company is preparing to unlock the full capacity via software.
Rivian’s Software Strategy: More Updates, More Revenue
This move is part of Rivian’s broader push into software-driven enhancements, similar to Tesla’s model. In December, the company released updates that allowed the infotainment system to recognize wheel and tire swaps, while also teasing launch control for pre-2025 models.
As software becomes an increasingly important revenue stream for automakers, paid performance upgrades are becoming the norm. Rivian is capitalizing on this trend, giving customers the option to enhance their vehicle’s capabilities without needing a hardware change—for a price.
The Future of EV Upgrades
Rivian’s latest update raises a big question: Will more automakers lock performance behind paywalls? While over-the-air software updates provide flexibility, some owners may feel frustrated paying extra for capabilities their vehicles already have but are restricted from using.
One thing is certain—EV software updates are reshaping the auto industry, and Rivian is making sure it stays ahead of the curve.
