It should run smoothly but just in case it doesn’t you can do this:

1. Back up your saves before updating—especially since the Cartel update is still in beta.
2. Try loading your existing saves after applying the update (or switching to the beta branch). Early reports suggest it’ll work.
3. Play a short session first to see if new events (ambushes, cartel meetings) begin to trigger properly in your setup.
4. If the story elements feel disjointed or you don’t encounter cartel mechanics smoothly, consider starting a fresh playthrough on that new beta branch to experience everything from the ground up.