11 Rivian R2 Accessories You Can Buy Now From EV Sportline
EV Sportline's R2 catalog now runs eleven products deep, from flow forged wheels and a 1.6-inch bolt-on lift to precut PPF, DIY tint, and a CarPlay screen that leaves no…
Why Unreal Engine Powers Rivian’s UI
Rivian’s 2026.03 update upgrades the R1 platform to Unreal Engine 5.5, and no, it’s not about gaming. It’s about smoother visuals, faster UI performance, and a more immersive digital cockpit that can scale across Gen 1, Gen 2, and future R2 vehicles. Here’s why this matters more than most people think.

Rivian Update 2026.03 Brings Apple Watch App
Rivian’s 2026.03 update introduces an Apple Watch app for both Gen 1 and Gen 2 R1 vehicles, allowing owners to lock and unlock doors, adjust cabin temperature, vent windows, and even set a target state of charge directly from their wrist. With passive entry support on Gen 2 and quick tap controls on Gen 1, this update makes everyday access to your Rivian feel even more seamless and connected.

What’s Coming In Rivian Software 2026.03
Rivian’s 2026.03 software update brings smarter cold weather range visibility, expanded performance features like Launch mode and broader Sport mode availability, improved Kneel Mode usability, and smoother visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5.5 across both Gen 1 and Gen 2 R1 vehicles. Add in the new Apple Watch app and a long list of stability and driver assist refinements, and this is a well rounded update that quietly improves the entire ownership experience.

2026.03
Software 2026.03 is a meaningful update for both Gen 1 and Gen 2 R1 vehicles, bringing clearer cold weather range insights with new battery shading, proactive notifications, and improved charging logic to better prepare the pack in low temps. Performance Dual and Quad models gain Launch mode with track stats, Sport mode expands across Dual variants, Kneel Mode becomes more responsive and easier to trigger, and the entire interface gets smoother thanks to an upgrade to Unreal Engine 5.5, all alongside a new Apple Watch app for remote control and a series of infotainment and driver assistance refinements  .

Rivian R2 vs Tesla Model Y, The EV Showdown That Will Define 2026
For years, the Tesla Model Y has been the default electric SUV choice. Now the Rivian R2 is stepping directly into that territory and this is more than a spec comparison. It’s a battle of philosophy, software strategy, manufacturing discipline, and brand identity. If Rivian executes, R2 doesn’t need to beat the Model Y on every metric, it just needs to become the compelling alternative in every conversation and that alone could reshape the EV landscape.

Rivian Has a Huge Opportunity to Build the Electric Work Truck Ford Walked Away From
Ford’s decision to cancel the F-150 Lightning leaves a major opening in the electric work truck market. A base Rivian R1T work truck with fewer luxury features, lower cost, and expanded onboard power could become the ultimate tool for contractors, fleets, and small businesses.

Rivian Reveals Behind the Scenes Look at R2 Production
Rivian just released new behind the scenes clips of the R2 coming together on the line, highlighting its simplified design and hinting at the start of the official R2 content push.

R2 Hype Begins, Rivian Spotted Shooting Content with Star Wars “R2 Units” Inspired Prototypes
A convoy of colorful Rivian R2 prototypes was spotted on a California highway, hinting that the company’s official R2 content rollout may be just getting started.

Rivian Drops Borealis Purple While Red Canyon Makes a Comeback
Rivian has removed the limited-edition Borealis purple from its online configurator, though a few vehicles are still available in the R1 Shop. Meanwhile, Red Canyon, which disappeared in August 2025, has officially returned as a selectable color.

Rivian Puts Hands-Free Driving Behind a Paywall, Offers Free Trial Through April
Rivian is officially putting hands-free driving behind a paywall. Universal Hands-Free is now part of the paid Autonomy+ package, with existing owners getting a limited free trial through April before subscriptions kick in. After that, drivers can choose between a $49.99 monthly fee or a $2,500 one-time purchase tied to the vehicle’s VIN, signaling a clear shift toward paid software features.









