New display screens and exterior light animations from Rivian bring new meaning to the term “software-defined vehicle,” as an over-the-air update lets drivers redefine their R1T pickup or R1S SUV as Michael Knight’s sleek black Trans-Am, KITT, or as Doc Brown’s time traveling stainless steel-bodied DeLorean.

These “costumes,” issued in time for Halloween, provide cool effects, like KITT’s ping-ponging red light, complete with the corresponding sound effect. Alas, these effects only work while the Rivian is parked, so there will be no hitting the road to hunt baddies or visiting 1955 to give Biff a piece of your mind.

In addition to the famous cars from the entertainment industry, Rivian has also included costumes that it describes as “Haunted Rivian,” with eight sound effects and purple, yellow, red, and green color schemes.

“This was such a fun project to work on!” wrote Rivian chief design officer Jeff Hammoud in a LinkedIn post. “Halloween has really turned into a fun holiday for our UI and Software teams. The positive feedback we get from our customers makes us push to see what new experiences we can offer each year.”

Hammoud reveals himself as a fan of ‘80s entertainment staples with his choices for the Rivian costumes. “The playfulness of our band and the fact that we can have fun things like this that also fit our brand is what makes it really fun,” he said. “The Knight Rider costume is my personal favorite! My childhood brought back to life. Once we put RGB lights into our Gen 2 vehicle headlights, we knew we had to do this!”

Related:Suspension Salvation for the Rivian R1S

Prepare for your trip back to 1955 with the "Back to the Future" costume's display. RIVIAN

Drivers of a similar age are likely to feel the same way, but it is encouraging to see favorable reactions from design professionals too. Former Global Director of Brand Design at Netflix, Noreen Morioka commented, “I love that this project helps consumers understand the personality of Rivian. Not only a great wink about ‘smart and innovative cars,’ but leaning into the cars’ technology to let owners be proud of their purchase in a joyful way. BRAVO!”

She concluded with a mention of how, in contrast, Elon Musk has employed the similar capabilities of Tesla’s cars for more crass humor. “Way better than a fart sound!” she said.

Halloween Camp mode gives the Rivian's interface a seasonally appropriate appearance. RIVIAN

Hammoud’s favorite costume almost seems like enough of a reason for first-generation Rivian owners to upgrade (along with the hugely improved ride of the second-generation R1S!), because the exterior lightbar effect only works on those vehicles. But all Rivians will display KITT’s diagnostic screens and play the show’s opening credits soundtrack.

Related:The Then and Now of Tech, Thanks to “Back to the Future”

Alas, the fun toys last only through November 4, so as with Halloween candy, we can only enjoy Rivian’s treats for a short while. Customers took to X.com to express a desire for the display style to be their permanent user interface rather than a simple animation to be used while the vehicle is stationary. Surely Gen X drivers can rouse enough interest in ‘80s nostalgia to make this a reality.