Rivian CEO Touts 'Snow Mode' Even As Tesla Cybertruck's Wintry Worries Linger

Rivian Automotive Inc RIVN CEO R.J. Scaringe shared images on Sunday showcasing the Rivian R1T truck effortlessly navigating through snow, contrasting with concerns raised about the performance of Tesla Inc‘s TSLA Cybertruck in snowy conditions.

What Happened: Scaringe posted pictures on X, captured by Gardner Nichols, depicting the R1T seamlessly handling snowy terrain. “Snow Mode: engaged!” he said.

The same pictures were also shared on Rivian’s official X account last week. “Winter conditions across North America are a sub-zero symphony, but for many Rivian owners, snow means time to play,” the post read. “We’d love to see where Snow Mode is taking you.”

Rivian incorporates a “snow mode” drive setting designed to enhance on-road performance during winter conditions, providing better control driving on snow, slush, and ice. The snow mode optimizes pedal response for smoother acceleration or deceleration while preventing slipping. Additionally, Rivian offers an off-road all-terrain mode for snowy off-road adventures.

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Why It Matters: The release of Rivian’s images showcasing its snow performance coincides with Tesla’s efforts to assure Cybertruck customers about its capabilities in snowy conditions. In the electric truck segment, Rivian’s R1T competes with the Cybertruck and Ford Motor Co’s F-150 Lightning.

Recent online videos depicting the Cybertruck struggling in snowy conditions have sparked concerns about its off-road capabilities. Notably, a video from December showed a gas-powered Ford truck rescuing the Cybertruck from a snowy situation.

Earlier this month, Gene Munster, Managing Partner at Deepwater Asset Management, expressed optimism on CNBC’s ‘Last Call’ show, stating that Tesla is likely to address the snow performance issue. Munster emphasized the importance of evidence, such as a software update or tire adjustment, to reassure potential buyers about the Cybertruck’s suitability for snowy environments.

“For the Cybertruck to be a hit… they got to sell it to places that it snows in,” Munster remarked.

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Photo courtesy: Rivian