Here’s how Rivian changed the rear door manual release on the R2

In response to growing concerns over electronic door handles, Rivian has announced modifications to the manual door release mechanism in its forthcoming R2 SUV. Recent videos unveiled this week reveal significant changes aimed at improving accessibility during emergencies. The front doors of the R2 will retain a familiar setup, featuring an electronic button for opening, along with a manual release latch positioned conveniently within the interior handle. However, the rear doors have also been updated with a new manual release design. Previously, R1 vehicle passengers had to remove a panel to access a 'release cord' for the manual latch. In the R2, Rivian has relocated this cord to a more logical position at the front part of the handle, although it still remains behind a plastic cover that requires removal, making it somewhat less accessible than the front door manual releases. As the R2 SUV's production launch is still a few months away, detailed instructions on utilizing this new release have yet to be published. Nevertheless, a recent video by Zack Nelson from JerryRigEverything has provided a glimpse into the necessary steps for accessing the manual release, particularly in scenarios where the vehicle’s electronic systems may fail. While such emergencies are infrequent, they can occur in critical situations, making swift access to door releases a vital consideration for safety. Rivian's initiative reflects a broader industry trend, as several automakers, including Tesla, face scrutiny over the practicality of their electronic door mechanisms. Reports have indicated at least 15 fatalities linked to incidents where individuals could not open doors following crashes, prompting Tesla to announce plans for redesigning their door handles. The push for improved manual releases is not limited to Rivian and Tesla alone; Ford also faced challenges when it had to recall its Mustang Mach-E due to issues with its electronic latches. The evolving design of vehicle door mechanisms highlights the importance of safety and accessibility in automotive innovation.