Rivian is recalling just 23 vehicles because of a potential electrical fault that could lead to a sudden loss of power. The affected vehicles—a mix of 2025 Rivian R1S SUVs and 2025 Rivian R1T pickup trucks—may have been assembled with an improperly grounded connection inside their High Voltage Distribution Boxes, Rivian told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The High Voltage Distribution Box regulates the flow of electricity from the vehicle's battery pack to the motors. If it's not properly grounded, that flow can be diverted, causing vehicles to lose drive power. A sudden loss of propulsion while driving is obviously a bad thing, and being a safety-critical function, it necessitates a recall under federal law.

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According to the recall documents, Rivian first became aware of the issue in March when a technician inspecting a battery pack that had been replaced under warranty discovered an improperly-grounded High Voltage Distribution Box connection. Rivian examined its manufacturing records and determined that some vehicles assembled between September 25, 2024, and February 19, 2025, could have improperly grounded connectors.

As the small size of the recall population indicates, some vehicles not included in the recall were built during this period with properly-grounded connectors. Even among the recalled vehicles, Rivian estimates that just 25% actually have the defect. And the automaker said it's unaware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue.

The remedy starts with inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the High Voltage Distribution Box ground-strap joint by Rivian service centers. Some vehicles may also need replacement battery packs, but customers won't have to pay for anything in either case. Rivian plans to mail owner notification letters October 3, but in the meantime owners can call the automaker's customer service department at 1-888-748-4261 with any questions. Rivian's reference number for this recall is FSAM-1723.

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Rivian considers the 2025 R1S and R1T to be second-generation models because, while they may look mostly the same on the outside, numerous hardware and software changes have improved range and efficiency, while increasing power. Rivian rolled out these updated models with dual-motor and ti-motor powertrains, while an updated quad-motor powertrain delivering 1,025 horsepower and 1,198 pound-feet of torque rejoins the lineup for the 2026 model year.

However, things will get really interesting when the more-affordable $45,000 Rivian R2 arrives next year, followed by the rally-inspired Rivian R3. These new models have the potential to greatly expand Rivian's sales volumes beyond the 40,000 to 46,000 units the company expects to deliver in 2025. In the meantime, though, Rivian is forecasting losses of $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion as it continues development and production ramp-up work for the R2 amid an unfriendly economic climate.