Electric vehicles have long been praised for their efficiency, quiet operation and advanced technology. One area where electric vehicles are now catching up with traditional performance cars is in offering driver-focused customisation. To match the pace, Rivian has introduced the RAD Tuner to give owners the ability to fine-tune their driving experience. Delivered via an over-the-air update, this feature represents an important step in the broader trend of software-defined vehicles.
What is the RAD Tuner?
RAD Tuner, developed by Rivian’s in-house Rivian Adventure Department (RAD), is a software calibration tool. It allows drivers to personalise how their vehicles respond in different driving conditions. Traditionally, Rivian vehicles, like many EVs, have offered a series of factory-defined drive modes such as Sport, Eco and Off-Road. While effective, these modes are generalised. RAD Tuner moves beyond presets by enabling drivers to create their own configurations, effectively acting as an ‘equaliser’ for the powertrain and chassis systems.
Customisable Parametres
The system provides access to ten adjustable parametres, each of which can significantly alter the way the vehicle performs. By adjusting these elements, owners can create driving modes tailored to their preferences, specific environments, or unique use cases. These parametres include:
- Acceleration: Adjusts throttle response for smoother or sharper performance.
- Regenerative Braking: Allows drivers to select how aggressively the vehicle slows when lifting off the accelerator.
- Brake Assist: Modifies the feel and responsiveness of the brake pedal.
- Steering Assist: Alters the weight of the steering, ranging from lighter inputs to a heavier, sport-oriented feel.
- Ride Height: Controls the air suspension height to accommodate comfort, aerodynamics or off-road clearance.
- Torque Balance: Adjusts how power is distributed between the front and rear motors.
- Wheel Slip: Sets traction control levels to either allow or prevent tyre spin, useful in off-road or performance contexts.
- Stability Control: Governs the level of electronic intervention during cornering or evasive manoeuvres.
- Damping: Determines how firm or soft the suspension feels across different surfaces.
- Roll Stiffness: Influences the degree of body roll during cornering.
Benefits of the System
The introduction of the Rivian RAD Tuner feature provides several advantages for Rivian owners:
Personalisation
With the RAD Tuner software, drivers are no longer limited to broad presets. Instead, they can adjust multiple elements to suit their comfort level and driving style.
Adaptability
Rivian’s custom drive modes can be optimised for a wide range of conditions, from highway cruising to technical off-road terrain.
Driver Engagement
The system offers a more interactive and informed driving experience, similar to performance tuning but without aftermarket modifications.
Transparency
By exposing the same parametres Rivian’s engineers use, customers gain insight into how different systems interact and influence vehicle behaviour.
Flexibility and Storage
Rivian has designed the RAD Tuner to be flexible. Owners may modify existing factory drive modes or build new profiles from the ground up. The system will allow drivers to save up to eight or sixteen custom modes, although the final capacity may vary. Each profile is stored digitally and can be selected at any time from the vehicle’s infotainment interface.
It is important to note that the Rivian RAD Tuner is exclusive to second-generation Quad-Motor R1T and R1S models. Earlier hardware versions are not currently compatible, reflecting technological and performance constraints.
FAQs
How does the RAD Tuner enhance the off-road driving experience?
The RAD Tuner boosts off-road performance by fine-tuning traction, suspension and ride height.
Are there preset drive modes available in the RAD Tuner?
Yes, the RAD Tuner includes factory preset drive modes that can be used as they are or further customised.
Does the RAD Tuner allow adjustment of steering and suspension settings?
Yes, the Rivian RAD Tuner lets drivers adjust both steering feel and suspension dynamics for a tailored driving experience.
The Rivian RAD Tuner is an important development in the evolution of EVs. By providing direct access to multiple performance parametres, it allows drivers to tailor their vehicle to match personal preference and environmental conditions.
Although the Tuner is currently available on only select models, you can check out these other Rivian cars for sale in the UAE that are available with other modern features.
To learn car facts, brands’ histories and more, keep reading dubizzle’s autos blog.
Cover and body image credits: Official website of Rivian
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