On the Dash:
- NHTSA is investigating Rivian vans over potential driver’s seat belt failures affecting about 17,198 vehicles.
- Steel-braided cables connecting the belts to the seats have frayed or broken, potentially leaving occupants unrestrained in the event of a crash.
- The probe highlights increasing safety scrutiny of EV makers producing both commercial and consumer vehicles.
On September 24, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation into Rivian over concerns that driver seat belts in its electric delivery vans could fail in a crash.
The preliminary evaluation covers an estimated 17,198 vans produced between 2022 and 2023, following six reports of problems with the driver’s seat belt anchorage system. In several cases, the steel-braided cable connecting the belt to the seat frame reportedly frayed or broke, potentially leaving occupants unrestrained.
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation is assessing the severity and scope of the issue. The agency posted a document detailing the investigation on its website.
Rivian, which produces delivery vans for e-commerce giant Amazon.com Inc., did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The company also manufactures consumer plug-in pickups and SUVs and has a partnership with Germany’s Volkswagen AG.
The investigation highlights the increasing scrutiny of electric vehicle manufacturers as production scales up for both commercial and consumer vehicles. Depending on NHTSA’s findings, Rivian could face recalls, mandatory repairs, or other corrective actions.
The agency will actively assess the reports to determine if the issue is isolated or systemic and whether it needs formal safety measures.
