Washington: Electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian Automotive has announced a recall of 34,824 vehicles in the United States due to a potential safety issue with the seatbelt pretension system, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The affected vehicles include Rivian’s EDV models produced between 2022 and 2025.
NHTSA has warned that a damaged pretension cable in these vehicles may prevent the driver’s seatbelt from tightening properly during a crash, significantly increasing the risk of injury. The seatbelt pretensioner is a critical safety feature designed to secure occupants in place during collisions, and any malfunction could compromise passenger safety.
In response, Rivian has already issued an over-the-air software update to address part of the defect and will conduct physical inspections and replacements of the seatbelt pretension assemblies where necessary. Owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by the company with instructions on how to proceed with the repairs.
This recall comes amid growing scrutiny of electric vehicle manufacturers as the industry rapidly expands. While EVs are often praised for innovation and sustainability, safety compliance remains a critical concern for both consumers and regulators. Rivian’s proactive recall demonstrates the company’s commitment to addressing potential risks, although it also highlights the challenges faced by EV manufacturers in maintaining quality and safety standards across high-tech vehicle systems.
The recall affects a broad segment of Rivian’s U.S. fleet and serves as a reminder that even advanced vehicles require continuous monitoring and oversight to ensure passenger safety. Rivian has stated that it is taking all necessary steps to correct the issue and minimize inconvenience to its customers while reinforcing confidence in its products.