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Rivian issues R2 recall for poorly tightened battery packs
Rivian recalled its R2 SUV due to improperly tightened battery pack fasteners, affecting around 14 vehicles. This is Rivian's second recall for the R2, crucial for its mass market strategy. The issue was discovered by a manufacturing operator in September 2023, and Rivian will repair or replace components as needed. The company is on track to deliver 20,000-25,000 R2s by year-end despite these recalls.
Key points
- Rivian issued a recall for its R2 SUV after finding fasteners on the battery pack might be poorly tightened.
- The recall affects approximately 14 vehicles and aims to prevent loss of power while driving.
- This is the second recall of the R2, with the first related to backup camera visibility, resolved via a software update.
- The defect was identified on September 17, 2023, at Rivian's Normal, Illinois factory.
- Rivian has not received any reports of accidents, injuries, or fatalities linked to the issue.
- Rivian's aggressive goal for 2023 is to ship 20,000-25,000 R2s, making it a significant vehicle for the company.
Why it matters
- This recall reflects ongoing quality control challenges in the electric vehicle sector, paralleling issues seen with other automakers.
- It connects to broader industry discussions on manufacturing standards and the importance of reliability, particularly for new mass-market EVs.
- The rise of EVs and recalls highlights critical safety concerns relevant to current trends in automotive innovation through 2025.
Despite the recall challenges, Rivian's R2 remains vital for the company’s growth, targeting swift production and robust demand to ensure success in the competitive EV landscape.