Electric vehicle company recalls close to entire fleet
Electric automaker Rivian has issued a recall for nearly every vehicle it has made this year.
The Amazon-backed electric vehicle venture announced it would recall 13,000 vehicles for an “insufficiently torqued fastener,” which is said potentially to inhibit steering, causing excessive noise and vibration or, in more serious cases, a greater crash risk.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stated in its recall report that the steering fastener could cause a “separation, affecting the driver’s ability to control the vehicle.”
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The recall specifically affects 12,212 Rivian trucks, SUVs, and delivery vehicles. The electric automaker shipped a total of 14,317 vehicles this year, according to CNBC, meaning the recall may affect 80% of Rivian’s fleet.
Rivian said it would inspect and fix or replace components to ensure the steering fasteners are properly secured.
“It’s important not to minimize the potential risks involved and why we are volunteering to conduct this recall. In rare circumstances, the nut could loosen fully,” Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe wrote to vehicle owners in a letter obtained by Gizmodo. “If you experience excessive noise, vibration or harshness from the front suspension, or a change in steering performance or feel, you should call immediately.”
The recall reportedly affected Rivian’s stock market success, causing it to drop 9% Monday. Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives told Market Watch that the recall is a “black eye for Rivian” as its shares have dipped 67.4% this year.
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Rivian previously announced its goal of producing around 150,000 vehicles per year by 2023.
