Rivian Adds Ghostbusters-Themed Halloween Update to Vehicles
The update includes a custom ECTO-R1 R1S and a video featuring Bill Murray, available via software versions 2026.36.0 and 2026.36.40.
Rivian has released its annual Halloween software update, introducing a Ghostbusters-themed interface and cosmetic features for its electric vehicles. The update continues the automaker’s tradition of releasing movie-inspired digital costumes in October.
What Happened
The new update adds optional cosmetic changes to the vehicle's user interface, including new light sequences, sounds, and an "eerie" voice for Rivian’s voice assistant. Users can access two games: a scavenger hunt to find hidden characters within the UI and a Ghostbusters-themed game playable on the center display while the car is parked. The features extend to Rivian’s mobile and watch apps, as well as the built-in screens at Rivian charging stations. The update is available via software version 2026.36.0 for the R1 series and 2026.36.40 for the R2.
Why It Matters
Rivian’s annual Halloween updates have become a recurring marketing strategy to engage owners and highlight software capabilities. Previous iterations included Swamp Thing in 2025 and Knight Rider and Back to the Future in 2024, often featuring celebrity cameos. This year, Rivian produced a short video featuring Bill Murray alongside a one-off ECTO-R1, a custom-dressed Rivian R1S modeled after the franchise's classic Ectomobile. This approach mirrors the 2024 Knight Rider update, which featured David Hasselhoff.
The Bottom Line
The Ghostbusters Halloween mode is active from October 9 through November 2. Owners can control and apply the costumes via the Rivian mobile app.
