Rivian R1S/R1T Owners DIY Emergency Door Releases: Safety First, Kids!

TL;DR: Rivian R1S and R1T Gen 2 owners are taking matters into their own hands, creating DIY modifications for rear door emergency releases after a design change made them hard to access. This highlights safety concerns with electronic door systems, especially for children.

Meta: Rivian R1S/R1T Gen 2 owners are modifying rear door emergency releases, addressing safety concerns with electronic door systems for kids.

Listen up, folks, because this ain't just about cool electric trucks; it's about safety, especially when you've got precious cargo in the back! Rivian's R1S and R1T are fantastic EVs, pushing boundaries and looking sharp. But when the Gen 2 models rolled out with a mid-life upgrade, some owners noticed a little something that wasn't so fantastic: the rear door emergency release. It's been tucked away so deep inside the door panel, you'd need a treasure map and a pry tool to find it in a panic. And if it's tough for an adult, imagine a kid in an emergency? That's not just an oversight; that's a potential problem!

Electronic door handles are all the rage in modern EVs. They look sleek, they're aerodynamic, and they help these beasts slip through the air like a greased lightning bolt. But the downside? If the power cuts out, or if you're in a stressful situation, those fancy electronic buttons can turn into a locked cage. Tesla has faced its share of headlines over similar issues, with first responders struggling and owners buying window smashers. Now, Rivian's Gen 2 R1S and R1T owners are finding themselves in a similar boat, and they're not waiting for an official fix. They're getting their DIY on!

Owners Get Creative for Safety

Reddit user dublew_dubs, a self-proclaimed Rivian fan, posted a guide on adding a paracord to the manual release. "In an emergency, it's very hard to access," they explained, describing the struggle to remove the trim panel and fish for the cord. "I don't see how anyone—especially kids—could realistically access this." Another user, AlsonCentral, went even further, using a steel cable, a small carabiner, and a metal ring to extend the door release. "We showed our kids and made them solemnly promise not to use it except in an emergency, because it can open the door even when you're going 70 mph." That's dedication, folks, but it also screams a serious design flaw.

It's a testament to the commitment of EV owners that they're willing to modify their $70,000+ vehicles to ensure basic safety. The fact that some Tesla owners are doing the same, or even switching brands, shows this isn't just a Rivian-specific hiccup; it's a broader issue with electronic door systems that prioritize aesthetics over accessible emergency functionality. When the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is opening preliminary investigations into door handles, you know it's not just a minor gripe; it's a potential safety hazard.

The Promise of Future Fixes

To their credit, both Tesla and Rivian have acknowledged the issue and promised future redesigns. Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla's design chief, mentioned integrating electronic and manual releases into a single mechanism. Rivian says its upcoming R2 SUV will feature redesigned door handles. That's great for future models, but what about the owners who've already shelled out their hard-earned cash for Gen 2 R1S and R1T? They're stuck with a problem that should have been solved on the drawing board.

This whole situation is a stark reminder that while cutting-edge tech is cool, basic safety features should never be an afterthought. Carmakers need to design for real-world emergencies, not just perfect driving conditions. And for parents, knowing your kids can safely exit a vehicle, no matter what happens, is priceless. It's not about being a fan; it's about being safe.

What's Next

Expect more scrutiny from regulatory bodies like NHTSA on electronic door handle designs across the EV industry. Automakers will likely move towards more intuitive and robust emergency release mechanisms, potentially integrating them directly into traditional handles or making them far more accessible. The DIY solutions from current owners will hopefully serve as a strong catalyst for manufacturers to prioritize this critical safety feature in current and future models, ensuring that style and efficiency never compromise occupant safety, especially for the most vulnerable passengers.

So, if you're driving one of these electronic beauties, maybe keep a window smasher handy, or get yourself a carabiner. Safety first, baby! That's how we roll! Yeah!

Rivian R1S rear door modified for easier emergency access. (image:1)

Screenshot from Rivian's manual showing emergency release instructions. (image:2)