Rivian, the electric vehicle manufacturer, is redesigning the door handles of its upcoming R2 SUV to address safety concerns raised by employees and customers. The company will relocate the interior manual releases to a less obstructed location. This simple change will expand access to them in times of emergency when we need them most. Rivian is in the final preparations to get the more affordable R2 to market next year. This decision further underscores their dedication to safety and their responsiveness to user feedback.
The move follows recent safety issues in the automotive industry, specifically with Ford’s Mustang Mach-E, which faced a recall due to electronic latches that could become stuck if the vehicle’s 12-volt battery failed. As Rivian adds electronically-latched door handles to the R2, it would do well to address concerns like this. The redesigned handles will include electrically-powered release mechanisms, with manual release levers placed closer to the user’s body for better visibility and reach.
Bloomberg News covered Rivian’s announcement too, correctly noting that the switch is limited to the new R2 SUV that was going to be built in Georgia. This redesign is a fascinating look at how Rivian responds when safety experts raise the alarm. It wants to provide a consistent, safe experience for their end users. The company is one of many automakers that have adopted electronically-latched door handles, indicating a broader industry trend towards advanced technology in vehicle design.
Safety will always be at the forefront for Rivian as it brings the R2 SUV to market. By changing the door handle design to achieve a balance between user experience and safety protocols, the company is improving both user experience and safety protection. Rivian’s forward-looking decision shows a greater focus on addressing customer worries in a competitive and fast-growing EV market.
