RIVIAN JUST SENT A HUGE UPDATE TO THEIR TRUCKS! HERE'S THE NEW 500A CHARGING CURVE

EV Channels Review

This video details the significant 2022.11.02 software update for the Rivian R1T, focusing on the new 500A charging curve. The reviewer highlights Rivian's responsiveness to feedback, with many suggested improvements now implemented, including car wash mode, improved traction control, and climate control enhancements. The core of the review, however, is the charging performance. While the update successfully increases the theoretical peak charging current to 500A (up from 450A), the reviewer encountered substantial thermal limitations. Despite multiple attempts and a cool ambient temperature, the truck repeatedly hit thermal limits, leading to significant tapering and extended testing times. The reviewer suggests that Rivian's cooling system needs a software overhaul to proactively manage high-power charging, rather than reacting only when overheating occurs. While the peak charging rate is improved, potentially saving a few minutes, the real-world benefit is currently hampered by these thermal issues. The reviewer expresses confidence in Rivian's responsiveness but stresses the urgent need for better thermal management to fully realize the benefits of faster charging.