Rivian Automotive(US:RIVN) New York Post·2025-12-03 18:38Core Viewpoint - Rivian has announced a recall of 34,824 electric delivery vans due to a safety defect that may prevent the driver's seat belt from properly restraining occupants during a crash [1][3]. Group 1: Recall Details - The recall affects electric delivery van models primarily used in Amazon's delivery fleet, produced between December 10, 2021, and November 8, 2023 [1][8]. - The defect is linked to damage in the driver-side seat belt cable, which can occur if operators sit on a buckled belt repeatedly, weakening the cable [3][4]. - Rivian has stated that no injuries or crashes have been reported related to this defect [3]. Group 2: Regulatory Actions - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated a preliminary evaluation in September regarding potential seat belt anchorage failures in these vans [4][11]. - A separate investigation by the NHTSA looked into issues affecting approximately 17,000 vans, specifically concerning frayed or broken cables [4]. Group 3: Mitigation Measures - Rivian has implemented a software update as of December 3, which detects seat belt misuse and alerts drivers [5]. - The company will inspect the seat belt systems and replace any damaged parts at no cost to the owners, with repairs expected to take less than an hour [5][8]. - Vehicles produced after November 8, 2023, come equipped with the new detection feature [5]. Group 4: Communication and Warranty - Owners are expected to receive notifications about the recall by mid-January, and Rivian will reimburse those who incurred out-of-pocket expenses for related repairs [8]. - The recall specifically pertains to the electric delivery van line and does not affect Rivian's R1S SUV or R1T pickup models [8]. - The company emphasized that the recall is precautionary and that the software and revised parts represent a permanent design change to prevent future issues [8].