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Home› Automobile Receipts› Rivian R1T vs Tesla Cybertruck

Rivian R1T VS Tesla Cybertruck

Rivian R1T Tesla Cybertruck
Verdict BUY IT DROP IT
The Reality NHTSA lists 7 recalls for the 2023 R1T, more than most competitors on this list by count -- but the substance is notably mild: a software bug that could deactivate the defroster, improperly aimed headlights, a mis-labeled tire placard, and several fastener/bolt-torque issues found during service (seat belt anchorage bolts, a suspension toe link, seat belt retractor bolts). None involve the fire-risk battery defects seen on several competing EVs in this same batch of entries. NHTSA's complaint database shows 38 complaints for the 2023 R1T -- one of the lower counts among the vehicles checked. The armor-glass claim was contradicted live, on stage, in front of a global audience: both the driver and rear windows shattered when struck with a thrown steel ball, moments after a sledgehammer failed to dent the truck's body. Musk later said a prior sledgehammer hit had cracked the glass base, which is why the ball didn't bounce off as intended. Since the production 2024 Cybertruck reached buyers, NHTSA has issued 11 separate recalls -- more than any other vehicle in this batch -- covering real safety-relevant defects (an accelerator pedal pad that can dislodge and become trapped, a drive inverter fault that can cause a loss of power to the wheels, a rearview camera delay violating a federal safety standard) alongside more minor issues (an incorrect instrument-panel font size, trim panels that can detach, a light bar that can delaminate). NHTSA's complaint database lists 170 complaints for the 2024 Cybertruck.
SHORT ANSWER

Rivian R1T: Rivian's R1T capability and performance claims are independently verified accurate, and NHTSA's recall data backs up the positive reputation -- all 7 recalls are software or fastener issues, with no fire-risk battery defects like several competing EVs have had.

Tesla Cybertruck: The Cybertruck's 'armor glass' claim was famously contradicted at its own 2019 reveal event when the windows shattered live on stage, and the production 2024 model has since accumulated 11 NHTSA recalls in under two years -- the most of any vehicle in this comparison.