How to drive Rivian RT1 on snow and ice

This article summarizes the known info related to driving in 4-motor Rivian vehicle during extreme snowy and icy conditions. Although it is based on RT1 experiences, it is expected that RS1 should behave similarly.

Warning: Until you get fully familiar with driving electric truck on snow and ice, exercise extreme caution. Having such a capable drive system might give you a false sense of security. Always remember that laws of physics still apply.

Being one of the most versatile vehicles on the planet, the RT1 will get you where most other vehicles cannot. However, there are always things to keep in mind when driving in winter conditions. The points and advice outlined below are not in any way a critique of Rivian’s drive system, just a reminder that even the best trucks on the planet have their limitations in severe winter conditions.

Driving in a deep show:

While Snow Mode is designed for driving on roads and highways, Rivian recommends using the Off-Road All-Terrain drive mode for snowy off-road adventures.

Since it is an electric truck, the Rivian is unusually quiet. In addition, snow tends to muffle all sound. When driving through a delicate patch of the snowed-in road, you might want to turn off the radio and roll down the windows a bit (half an inch is enough, as you don’t want to get hit by any debris spinning wheels might throw) and listen to any noise your wheels make in interaction with the surface below. This should give you valuable clues while navigating a tricky terrain covered with snow.

If the wheels are slipping or vehicle is sliding, try to safely steer the wheels to any patch of dry land, flat rock or grass. Make sure the RT1 is in the rock-crawl mode.
You can experiment with allowing some wheels slippage, just to keep chewing the snow in front of the truck. Driving in deep snow always requires some momentum otherwise the wheels will start spinning and the vehicle will get stuck.

If you get stuck, try backing up and passing the same spot with a bit of momentum. If the surface below has gotten icy from your previous attempts or from the cars before you, try a slightly different, less icy, path.

Sometimes it helps to send one of your passengers, preferably an experienced driver, to stand at the safe distance in front of the truck and help you steer through tight spots. They should be located at the higher ground and off the path you are trying to traverse. Use a cellphone if you have a signal to keep communication clear and your navigator at a safe distance.

Do not drive too close to the trees and edge of the road, especially when loaded with additional cargo. Do not speed downhill because it is not easy to slow down with increased mass, regardless of superior traction control and regen on all 4 wheels.

If your Rivian is equipped with 275/55 R21 or 275/50 R22 tires, carry low-profile snow chains. This might get you out of getting stuck in really deep snow. Rivian doesn’t recommend cables or chains for 275/65 R20 tire size – any damage will not be covered by the warranty.

Driving on an icy road:

Like with any other truck, if the truck bed is loaded with heavy stuff, the vehicle will almost certainly slide sideways on even slightly tilted roads. This is where a heavy battery on the bottom will likely prevent it from flipping, but you still need to practice extreme caution. On the steep and narrow parts of the road, if safe, get out of the vehicle and inspect the terrain in front of the truck. Lay small branches in front of the wheels, pour sand and small rocks to create more friction and prevent the truck from dangerously slipping off the road.

At over 7000 pounds, Rivian is a heavy vehicle. Its weight and low center of gravity helps maintain a firm grip on the road, but being about 2000 pounds heavier than a conventional truck of a similar size might cause it to slide a bit further than you expected when stopping in icy conditions.

Driving at maximum height can prove useful in off-road conditions, but you might want to try a bit lower settings on a more flat, icy surface. This will give you a better sense of control and improve stability.

Exercise caution when passing other cars on a snowy or icy road. Your truck has superior handling compared to most vehicles, so they might be surprised by your speed and make a sudden move, which can cause their vehicle to slip uncontrollably.

Conclusion:

Driving any truck in snowy or icy conditions can be challenging, but also rewarding. You need to be aware of the weight, dimensions, and traction of your vehicle, and adjust your driving accordingly to the terrain. You also need to exercise caution when passing other cars, backing up, and stopping. You can use some tips and tricks to improve your grip and stability, such as carrying low-profile snow chains, laying small branches or sand in front of the wheels, and, if needed, sending a passenger to a safe higher-ground observation point to help you navigate.

Keep in mind these guidelines and drive safely, so you can enjoy the superior performance and handling of your Rivian truck in snowy and icy weather.