Rivian has launched its 2026 Halloween software update, introducing an immersive Ghostbusters-themed experience created in partnership with Sony Pictures. Rolling out over the air to the R1S, R1T, and R2 vehicle lineups, the seasonal update transforms the electric vehicles into mobile paranormal investigation units complete with custom lighting, movie-inspired soundscapes, and interactive arcade games.
The update goes live on October 9, 2026, and remains active through November 2, 2026. Compatible vehicles running software version 2026.36.0 for the R1 line and version 2026.36.40 for the R2 are greeted on their driver displays with a prompt asking if they want to “hunt some ghosts,” plunging owners directly into the themed interface.
A Single Red Toggle Controls the Ghostbusters Experience
At the heart of the in-vehicle update is a dedicated Ghostbusters app that features a distinctive red toggle switch on the center touchscreen. When activated while parked, the interface synchronizes the vehicle’s interior lighting, audio output, and exterior displays. Drivers can choose from six distinct exterior lighting and sound sequences:
- Ecto-1: Classic siren and lighting profiles modeled after the legendary movie car.
- Proton Pack: High-energy visual and audio cues mimicking the iconic ghost-catching proton streams.
- Slimer: Green-tinted lighting paired with cheeky, slimy sound effects.
- Ghost Trap: Flickering trap lights and mechanical snapping audio.
- Peter Venkman: A personalized nod to Bill Murray’s iconic character.
- Random: Automatically cycles through available themes.
Rivian has also equipped the vehicles with a Motion Mode, allowing the exterior lights and soundscapes to trigger automatically whenever a pedestrian walks past the vehicle. This feature is ideal for driveways packed with trick-or-treaters.
Hardware Splits and Custom Lock Sounds
Lock sounds vary depending on the vehicle generation and hardware architecture. First-generation R1 vehicles receive the classic Ecto-1 sound profile, while Gen 2 R1 models and the newer R2 give owners the flexibility to choose between Ecto-1, the Proton Pack effect, or an eerie supernatural chant.
The interior user experience also receives a thorough makeover. The Rivian Assistant voice assistant picks up an eerie tone for the season, capable of reading scavenger hunt clues or executing exterior light shows upon voice command. Meanwhile, parked drivers and passengers can enjoy ‘Mallow Mash, a built-in center display arcade game where players pop Mini-Pufts marshmallow men against the clock.
Scavenger Hunt and Hidden Easter Eggs
Rivian engineers have embedded an interactive scavenger hunt across the vehicle’s user interface. Clue cards hidden within familiar menus-such as Drive Modes, Gear Guard settings, side camera feeds, and the Energy app-direct users to uncover hidden digital characters like Slimer and Ghost Guards. These discoveries trigger exclusive animations and audio clips.
The Physical Ecto-R1 and Bill Murray Campaign
Complementing the digital software rollout, Rivian built a physical tribute called the Ecto-R1. Based on a custom-built Rivian R1S, the vehicle features stark white paint, specialized red body graphics, iconic No-Ghost door logos, and 22-inch aero wheels with white covers. Its custom roof rack hosts restored, vintage-style emergency lights, sirens, and radar equipment inspired by the 1984 cinematic classic.
The physical build stars in a promotional advertising campaign directed by Gil Kenan and featuring actor Bill Murray, who originally portrayed Dr. Peter Venkman in the 1984 film.
Where to Experience the Ecto-R1 in Person
Fans hoping to see the custom Ecto-R1 build up close can catch it on tour at select Rivian spaces across the United States. The company is hosting community celebrations featuring themed refreshments, limited-edition merchandise, and specialized Ghostbusters charging experiences at the following locations:
- Laguna Beach Space, California
- Austin Space, Texas
- Venice Space, California
- Miami Brickell Space, Florida
- San Francisco Space, California
- New York City Meatpacking District Space, New York
- NYC Village Halloween Parade
- Los Angeles Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt Pop-up
Owners must ensure their vehicle software and mobile smartphone apps are fully updated to the latest versions to access the limited-time Halloween Mode features before they disappear on November 2.
