Here’s how Rivian changed the rear door manual release on the R2
There’s been a lot of pushback on electronic door handles lately, as multiple carmakers — especially Tesla — have been accused of making manual door releases too hard to find and access during an emergency.
First off, the front doors open from the inside in the same way as in the existing R1 vehicles.
The rear doors also have an electronic button, as well as a change to the rear manual release.
But it’s at least in a more logical spot than just being hidden behind a panel.
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But when they do, it’s typically during a major crash.
That means every moment can mean the difference between life and death.
Rivian is not alone in reworking how hard it is to access the manual releases.
The most high-profile example is Tesla.
The company has said it will change how it designs its handles in order to address the problem.
And electronic door latches can present other issues. Last year, Ford had to issue a recall to fix a power-delivery problem for the electronic door latches on the Mustang Mach-E
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