Rivian, the electric vehicle manufacturer known for its rugged R1S and R1T models, (new Gen quad-motor R1T and R1S), has made a bold move. Following in Tesla’s footsteps, the company has decided to ditch the traditional key fob for its latest deliveries. This shift towards a keyless future has sparked a heated debate among Rivian enthusiasts and industry observers alike.
Instead of the familiar key fob, new Rivian owners will now rely on a KeyCard and mobile app to access and operate their vehicles. This transition mirrors Tesla 2022 decision for its Model S and Model X lines. While this change might seem progressive, it’s not without its critics.
The Rivian community has been vocal about their reservations. Many owners argue that a physical key fob is crucial, especially given Rivian’s off-road focus. Imagine being stuck in a remote location with no cell service – suddenly, that app-based key doesn’t seem so convenient.
Interestingly, some users report issues specifically with iOS devices. One owner commented, “iOS in many ways feels like a step huge backwards.” This sentiment highlights the potential pitfalls of relying solely on smartphone technology for vehicle access.
Rivian seems aware of these concerns. The company has reportedly built in detection for Bluetooth stack unreliability, suggesting they’re not blind to the potential issues. However, this preemptive measure hasn’t fully quelled user anxieties.
While some users report never having issues with their phone-as-key setup, others aren’t as fortunate. One user shared, “My key fob actually doesn’t even work. I’ve been meaning to get Rivian to send me a new one but I never think about it.” This disparity in user experience adds another layer to the debate.
Adding to the frustration, Rivian isn’t currently offering key fobs for separate purchase. A Rivian Guide confirmed they would be available in the Rivian Gear Shop “at a later date,” leaving current owners in limbo.
Could this be a temporary move? There’s speculation that Rivian might be working on a next-generation key fob to address current concerns. Until then, new Rivian owners will need to adapt to this keyless reality.
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