Rivian has launched a Ghostbusters-themed Halloween software update for its electric vehicles, bringing interactive displays, coordinated lighting effects, movie-inspired sound effects, and arcade games to the R1S, R1T, and R2.
The rollout is accompanied by a custom Ecto-R1 vehicle inspired by the franchise's iconic paranormal investigation car, with actor Bill Murray featured in promotional material.
According to TechRadar's October 9, 2026, report, the update is rolling out under version 2026.36.40 for the R2 and 2026.36.0 for the R1 lineup.
The software transforms compatible vehicle interfaces into a Ghostbusters-inspired experience while extending the theme to the instrument display and Rivian's Android and iOS apps.
Ecto-R1 Showcase and Interactive Features
The centerpiece of Rivian's physical tribute is the Ecto-R1, a customized R1S featuring white paint, Ghostbusters markings, roof-mounted paranormal investigation equipment, and vintage-style police lights.
Additional equipment in the rear adds to its resemblance to the vehicle associated with the film franchise.
TechRadar reported seeing the custom SUV at a special event in New York City, where Murray also took a ride in the vehicle.
The one-off conversion serves as a showcase for the update, while the software brings elements of the franchise to customer vehicles without requiring physical modifications.
Murray described the custom vehicle's design by saying, "just technical enough, and just silly enough to be perfect; it's really perfect."
He also described the vehicle as a cool car after experiencing its lights and sound effects, according to TechRadar's account of the event.
In the R2, the main touchscreen becomes a virtual paranormal investigation control panel called Trick or Treat mode.
Its interface features switches, buttons, sound effects, and controls for interior ambient lighting and exterior lights.
The interactive design includes animated responses to user actions.
For example, activating a switch associated with radar equipment causes a ghostly hand to appear and turn it off again, adding a playful element to the interface.
Owners can select from several preset lighting and audio experiences named Ecto-1, Proton Pack, Slimer, Ghost Trap, Peter Venkman, and Random.
Manual and Motion modes provide additional control, with Motion mode triggering effects when someone moves nearby.
The update also includes the Ghostbusters theme music, siren effects, and coordinated lighting sequences.
The visual treatment extends beyond the central touchscreen to the display behind the steering wheel and Rivian's mobile application on Android and iOS devices.
For use while parked or charging, Rivian has added an arcade featuring games inspired by the franchise.
One game, Mallow Mash, challenges players to pop as many Mini-Puft marshmallow characters as possible.
TechRadar reported that Murray also tried the game and remarked on its difficulty.
The arcade joins the interactive controls, sound effects, and lighting options as part of the broader seasonal software package.
Rivian's promotional campaign features Murray as Dr. Peter Venkman, his character from Ghostbusters.
Gil Kenan, co-writer of Ghostbusters: Afterlife and director and co-writer of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, also contributed to the advertisement.
The 2026 release continues Rivian's practice of seasonal software updates, following previous Halloween themes inspired by Knight Rider and Back to the Future.
This year's release combines franchise-inspired digital features with a custom vehicle designed to recreate the look of the Ghostbusters' paranormal investigation car.
