Here's Why the Edmunds' Charger EV Started Moving Without Anyone Pressing the Pedals | Carscoops

      Stellantis has shared more details about a safety feature known as Drive By Brake, which was mistakenly linked to unintended acceleration.

      The automaker explained that this system is designed to help drivers avoid unexpected stops in the middle of the road. They are also working to clarify how the feature operates in real-world situations.

      Experiencing your car acting on its own is always unsettling. Recently, a Dodge Charger Daytona moved forward without any driver input, an incident reported by Edmunds. Their long-term test vehicle unexpectedly began to accelerate while displaying several unclear warning messages on the dashboard.

      Although this scenario typically raises concerns about unintended acceleration, Stellantis states that it is a feature, not a malfunction, and has provided information about its functionality.

      A Safety Feature Misunderstood as a Malfunction?

      Upon the initial reports, Stellantis promptly declared that the incident involved the Drive By Brake feature. This mode activates when the vehicle detects an issue with the accelerator pedal, allowing for slow acceleration while delivering torque.

      In the specific case involving the Edmunds Charger Daytona, the test driver noted, “I observed the speedometer and could see the Charger was accelerating at roughly 1 mph per second without my foot on the pedal.” The brakes remained fully operational, enabling the driver to decelerate or stop the vehicle as needed.

      Not a New Feature, Just Understated

      Stellantis has indicated that Drive By Brake is not unique to the Charger Daytona or electric models and has been included in various internal combustion engines for years. However, when asked about specific vehicles that incorporate this feature, the company did not provide examples or any supporting documentation.

      Nonetheless, Stellantis followed up with additional details, specifying that Drive By Brake is currently operational in several North American models across its ICE, xHEV, and BEV platforms.

      “Drivers will see a notification in the instrument cluster—either ‘Service Engine Soon’ or ‘Service Propulsion System’—along with an icon, like a turtle or wrench symbol, when Drive By Brake is engaged,” a spokesperson explained.

      Purpose and Function of the Feature

      The company elaborated on how the system works and what drivers should anticipate. “In Drive By Brake mode, the torque from the powertrain is limited and applied gradually, allowing for safe maneuvering in case of a fault while traveling at highway speeds of approximately 50 mph.” This safety feature prevents the car from stalling and remaining stuck at the fault location.

      While it remains unclear which older Stellantis models are equipped with this safety measure, it is crucial since being stranded in an active lane can pose significant dangers. Stellantis has also highlighted that the feature is designed so that engaging the brakes interrupts the torque and stops the vehicle.

      A lingering question is why a clear message isn't provided to inform drivers to expect acceleration. Stellantis hasn't addressed this specifically but mentioned that they are reviewing in-vehicle messaging and consumer information to enhance clarity regarding this feature.

      Furthermore, regarding the issue sometimes resolving when the vehicle is turned off and then on again, Stellantis noted, “The vehicle’s control system checks for faults with each key-on action, so stopping while in Drive By Brake mode, turning it off, and restarting the vehicle can restore normal function as long as the fault isn’t redetected.”

      Understanding the Situation at High Speeds

      In conclusion, we now have a better understanding of how what initially appeared to be unintended acceleration was actually an intended safety feature. The Charger wasn't malfunctioning; it was simply performing its role, albeit without adequately informing the driver.

      If Stellantis intends to maintain this feature across various vehicles, it may need to ensure that drivers can access more information than what is buried in obscure service manuals. Drivers deserve clearer insights rather than having to interpret vague dashboard indicators and follow-up press releases.