Rivian is reportedly rethinking its electro-mechanical door opening system due to safety concerns. While Tesla faces similar criticism for its Cybertruck and Model Y models, the electric vehicle manufacturer would adapt its technology for its future R2 vehicle.
The Problematic Evolution of Opening Systems
The early R1 models from Rivian featured fully mechanical door latches. But the early 2025 revision introduced a system with no physical connection between the handle or button operated by occupants and the opening mechanism. This change required the installation of emergency handles on all doors.
For front passengers, these emergency handles remain easily accessible – they are black plastic elements located at the bottom of the armrest, in the same location as the mechanical handles on first-generation vehicles.
The Specific Problem with Rear Doors
The situation becomes more complicated for rear occupants, which reportedly motivated the planned changes for the R2 series. On the second-generation R1S and R1T, the manual emergency release cord is not directly accessible in the rear doors.
It is actually concealed behind a plastic panel that must be removed beforehand, facing the electronic opening button. This design could pose a problem in an emergency situation, where every second counts, especially if a child is on board.
A Response to Criticism
According to anonymous sources, employees and customers reportedly expressed their concerns about this design to Rivian. This feedback is said to have prompted the young manufacturer to reconsider its approach for the R2.
For the smaller SUV, the mechanism of the rear doors and their positioning would be similar to those of the front doors, according to available information.
Rivian’s Official Position
In a statement, Rivian stated that the R2 would meet or exceed all federal automotive safety standards, including passenger evacuation in the event of an accident or emergency. The company also clarified that no injuries had been reported due to rear doors not opening on the new R1 vehicles.
These comparative photos illustrate the design differences in handles between the 1st and 2nd generations of the Rivian R1 series. For the front doors, the location of the mechanical handle has not changed, although the second-generation vehicles also have an opening button. However, to access the manual release for the rear door of a Gen 2, a plastic panel must first be removed.
Future Outlook
At this stage, it is unknown whether Rivian will also modify the system already in place on the R1 models. As global regulators simultaneously show interest in the potential dangers of new door handles, the manufacturer could establish consistency across its entire range by using the R2 approach as a model.