Rivian Rolls Out AI Assistant to R1T, R1S and R2 for $15-a-Month Connect+

8 articles · Updated · MotorTrend · May 12

Rivian is deploying its in-house “Rivian Assistant” to compatible Gen 1 and Gen 2 R1T and R1S vehicles, with the system also built into the upcoming R2.
Built on Rivian’s own software and electrical architecture, the assistant can control far more than typical car voice systems—including ride height, drive modes, frunk functions and vehicle-specific maintenance queries.
Connect+ subscribers can also use it for internet-backed tasks such as route-based destination search, reading and summarizing texts, and drafting replies in natural language.
Google Calendar is the only third-party app supported at launch, letting the assistant read schedules, adjust appointments and share ETA updates based on navigation data.
The rollout underscores Rivian’s strategy of replacing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with a deeply integrated in-house interface tied to its vehicles and services.

Will Rivian’s AI assistant win over drivers, or will its lack of CarPlay become a costly mistake?

With Google's own AI coming to cars, can Rivian's in-house assistant truly compete or will it become redundant?

As Rivian's AI learns your habits, what are the hidden costs to your personal data privacy and security?