I'm Making a Proposal to Rivian as a Gen2 R1T Owner Asking It Not to Ruin the Cool Factor on a Great Truck, Defeating the Purpose

This evening, while browsing the "RIVIAN Electric Vehicles Discussion" group, I came across an interesting post by a Rivian owner named Nikolas. He highlighted a change in the way Rivian's charge status LED lights function, sparking a discussion among Gen2 R1T and R1S owners. According to Nikolas, the front and rear charge status LED lights on the Rivian R1T turn off when the vehicle is locked, reducing visibility and appeal. He argues that keeping these lights on while charging would enhance usability, allowing owners to monitor charging status from a distance while also increasing public interest in the vehicle.

Nikolas wrote:

“I just sent the message below to Rivian and am curious how many others agree or what your thoughts are. Hello, I’m a current Gen2 R1T owner. I’ve noticed that while charging, the front and rear charge status LED lights only stay on while the vehicle is unlocked and you’re standing right next to it. Once the vehicle is locked, they turn off. That kind of ruins the cool factor and defeats the purpose of the indication. When I’m sitting at a restaurant, for instance, and can see it from a distance, it would be awesome to know that it’s still charging and see the current charge status. I believe this would also be great for marketing, as a lot more people would notice the vehicles and ask about them. Please make this a selectable (On or Off While Locked) feature in a software update. I believe a lot of people would love it.”

The Community's Response

Nikolas's concern resonated with many in the Rivian community, sparking a conversation with multiple perspectives. Some agreed with his request, while others pointed out potential downsides to keeping the charge status lights on.

Dionne Mackey shared a practical workaround, saying, “I just look at my app since I’m generally not close enough to be wowed by the green lights. I do remember when it used to do what you said, but it changed along the way. Not sure when.”

Meanwhile, Erica Moseley, a Gen2 R1S owner, added a counterpoint: “I'm a Gen2 R1S owner, and while I do like the light bar being lit up while charging, keeping it on would be annoying. I go camping, and when it’s dark, the light moving back and forth is very bright. It would be nice if there were an option to keep it on or turn it off when the vehicle is locked.”

Bryan Ackerlund expressed support for Nikolas' request, noting, “It seems like that use case is a perfect reason to have the indicator stay on while locked. I thought that was how it was marketed. I know I would want that.”

The Case for Customization

Nikolas' suggestion isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about usability and user preference. A simple software update that allows owners to toggle the charge status LED lights on or off when locked would cater to both sides of the debate. This kind of user-focused flexibility is something EV makers should prioritize, as it aligns with customer expectations in an era where software plays a crucial role in vehicle customization.

Interestingly, Rivian has already demonstrated the ability to make critical software adjustments based on user feedback. For instance, this recent update caused unexpected heat pump noise issues, highlighting the importance of thorough testing before rolling out software changes. Similarly, Rivian should carefully consider whether a tweak to the charge status LED light behavior could improve the ownership experience.

Why This Matters for EV Adoption

The small details matter when it comes to EV adoption. Features like a visible charge status indicator can increase public awareness, sparking curiosity among potential buyers. A Rivian owner sitting at a restaurant with a clear view of their charging vehicle may attract the attention of passersby, leading to conversations about EV ownership, range, and charging experiences.

The visibility of charging behavior has been a key factor in brand awareness for other EV makers, particularly Tesla, whose Supercharger stations are highly recognizable due to their distinct design and lighting elements. If Rivian implements a customizable charge light feature, it could add to the brand’s unique identity in a similar way.

This isn't just a niche concern. Other Rivian owners have faced challenges around charging visibility and reliability. For instance, one R1T owner encountered unexpected range recovery after leaving his vehicle unplugged in freezing temperatures. Keeping the charge status lights visible could provide reassurance in such cases, allowing owners to visually confirm their vehicle is still actively charging despite external conditions.

A Call to Action for Rivian

As Rivian continues to refine its software, listening to the community is crucial. Whether it’s improving range prediction, optimizing software updates, or adjusting charging indicators, the brand has a unique opportunity to enhance its vehicles based on real-world feedback. A selectable “On or Off While Locked” feature for charge status lights seems like a simple but meaningful update that could improve user experience without alienating those who prefer a darker, distraction-free environment.

Moral of the Story

User feedback is the backbone of innovation. The best automotive brands are those that not only build great products but also listen to the people who drive them every day. Small software changes can make a big difference in usability, brand perception, and ultimately, customer satisfaction. The lesson here? If you see room for improvement in a product you love, speak up. You never know when your suggestion might lead to a meaningful change.

What Do You Think?

1. Would you prefer Rivian to offer an option to keep the charge status LED lights on while the vehicle is locked, or do you think the current setup is fine?
2. Have you noticed any other software changes in your Rivian vehicle that you feel improved or reduced its usability?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Image by Nickolas Haustein, whose post I referenced and linked above.

Narek Hareyan is a young automotive journalist with experience in a golf cart dealership and an interest in the automotive industry. Follow Narek on X for daily news coverage about cars.