Federal investigation into Rivian vehicles after driver complaints about malfunctions (3 photos)
Rivian electric vans under investigation for safety issues
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into 17,198 Rivian electric vans over potential issues with the driver's seat belt system. The regulator says that in the event of a crash, drivers could be left without functional restraints, posing a serious safety risk.
Vehicle Owner Complaints
The Department of Defect Investigation has received six formal complaints from owners reporting possible seat belt system failures.
The documents describe numerous instances where the seat belt's steel braided cable frays, breaks or unravels, leaving occupants unsupported in a collision.
Technical Aspects of the Problem
It also notes that a frayed cable can reduce the seat belt's load-bearing capacity. According to NHTSA representatives, a faulty seat belt system poses an unreasonable risk to vehicle safety. 
Scope of Investigation
The investigation will cover 2022 and 2023 model year vans. ODI officials said they will focus on assessing the integrity of the seatbelt assembly, installation methods, and potential design or manufacturing changes or defects. The study will also help understand the frequency and severity of the problem.
Current status and history of the model
The regulator has not yet recorded any injuries or deaths related to seatbelt failure in Rivian vans. 
The Rivian EDV model is offered in three wheelbase and payload options. The van was initially built exclusively for Amazon after the retailer ordered 100,000 units, with deliveries set to continue through 2030. The electric van will be available to other companies under the name ECV from November 2023.
The situation highlights the importance of proper quality control in the automotive industry, especially when it comes to new technologies and mass production. The fact that the problem was discovered early on without serious consequences may indicate the effectiveness of the safety monitoring system, although the scope of the investigation shows the seriousness of the potential defect.
