Rivian establishing software for free-wheel towing

Rivian is creating software that would certainly enable its EVs to be free-wheel hauled, according to a patent filing.

Free-wheel towing is when an automobile is lugged behind an additional vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. It’s a common method for RV proprietors, that typically tow cars behind their motorhomes so they have a way to get around when they reach their destination.

In the patent application concerned, which was released by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on Feb. 13 (yet filed on May 12, 2021), Rivian recommends adding a software program setting for free-wheel towing to its electric pickup trucks and SUVs, together with the various drive modes and other software-enabled attributes already offered.

Free-wheel towing mode would disconnect the electric motor or motors that normally power the rear wheels, however maintain the front-axle electric motor or motors engaged. Torque would still be applied to the front wheels to keep the lorry from presenting of sync with the tow car. Software application would use a vehicle’s existing sensing units to determine wheel rate and gradient, using torque when necessary and sufficing off at a predetermined threshold.

Rivian free-wheel towing patent image

Rivian free-wheel lugging license photo It’s uncertain if Rivian will certainly add this feature to manufacturing EVs, however it won’t need to wait for a refresh or redesign to do it. Like Tesla, Rivian includes brand-new attributes via over-the-air (OTA) software application updates, such as the Snow mode that joined various other drive modes on the R1T and R1S in 2022, or Camp mode, designed to automatically level automobiles at camping sites.

Rivian’s following manufacturing version, the R2, is scheduled to debut on March 7. It’s an electrical SUV that’s expected to be smaller and less expensive than the R1S, however will not get in manufacturing until 2026.

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