EV maker Rivian (RIVN) is redesigning the door handles of its upcoming R2 SUV after safety concerns were raised. Indeed, the current design makes the manual release hard to access if the car loses power. As a result, Rivian now plans to place a more visible manual release near the interior door handles, according to Bloomberg. This change is being made ahead of the R2 SUV’s expected launch in the first half of 2026 and comes as Tesla (TSLA) faces scrutiny from U.S. safety regulators over similar door handle issues.
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In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating claims that recessed and power-operated handles can fail in emergencies, thereby making it difficult to enter or exit the vehicle. The main concern is that if the battery dies and the manual release can’t be found or used quickly, people, especially kids or those with disabilities, could be trapped inside. Interestingly, Rivian has faced similar criticism in the past.
In 2024, it replaced its traditional manual handle with an electric one to save costs and improve style. However, the new manual backup, which requires users to remove an unlabeled panel and pull a release cord, led to a formal NHTSA complaint. Specifically, one owner argued that the system was too complicated for small children or elderly passengers to use in emergencies. Nevertheless, automakers claim that these designs help prevent doors from opening accidentally while driving.
Is RIVN Stock a Buy or Sell?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Hold consensus rating on RIVN stock based on seven Buys, 12 Holds, and four Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average RIVN price target of $13.76 per share implies 2% upside potential.
