Rivian R1T takes the carrot frunk test

  • This footage of a Rivian R1T cutting through a carrot will have owners minding their fingers
  • It’s designed to clamp down harder with every attempt to close the frunk
  • Its pinch protection system allegedly worked at first, but not after that

Published on May 08, 2024 at 4:40 PM (UTC+4)
by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones

Last updated on May 08, 2024 at 4:51 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Tom Wood

Rivian R1T has had its pinch protection put to the test as a video emerged of a frunk test.

The Rivian R1T has an auto-closing frunk lid to rival the Tesla Cubertruck.

It seems to struggle at first, but then chops a sacrificial carrot in two with no problem.

READ MORE! Best electric car to buy in 2024

The footage was taken by an owner of the Rivian R1T and comes fresh on the heels of Rivian unveiling three new EVs.

The frunk test of both the Tesla Cybertruck and the Rivian R1T has had some bad press recently because of their ability to injure people’s digits – the pair are often pitted against each other.

The footage shows the pinch protection system of what was previously labeled the coolest new pickup truck in the world kicking in when it initially comes into contact with the salad staple.

However, the second and third attempts seem to go a lot harder in an apparent attempt to overcome its veggie obstacle.

On the first attempt, the pinch protection system of the all-electric pickup allegedly worked, but not in the second and third.

The frunk initially stops as it meets resistance before doubling down with force until managing to cut its way through.

It seems that fingers have been the major casualty of American EV manufacturers as it seems the pinch protection system is actually offering very little protection.

The short video was posted to the r/Rivian Subreddit.

It caused many to voice concerns about what it could do to the digits and appendages of adults and children.

Previously the pinch protection system seemed to stop the the frunk from auto-closing when it met the carrot.

Commenters surmised that this might mean that the Rivian R1T frunk test is proof that the compartment is designed to clamp down harder the more times closure is attempted.

This may be a design flaw due to engineers’ assumption that if closed is attempted multiple times, it’s trying to close over something it needs to squash down in order to close.

This is merely conjecture, however.

Supercar Blondie reached out to Rivian to comment.

Meanwhile, keep your fingers, toes – and anything else – clear of any closing door.

# Tags - Car News, Cars, EV, truck


user

Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones

London-based Amelia cut her journalistic teeth covering all things lifestyle, wellness and luxury in the UK capital. Fast-forward a decade and the experienced content creator and editor has put pen to paper for glossy magazines, busy newsrooms and coveted brands. When her OOO is on you can find her spending quality time with her young family, in the gym or exploring the city she loves.