In the unveiling of Stellantis’ new STLA Large platform, CEO Carlos Tavares emphasized the significance of rapid acceleration in electric vehicles (EVs) as a fundamental safety feature. The platform supports models capable of achieving 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in as little as 2 seconds. Tavares underscored the importance of quick acceleration in ensuring safe overtaking maneuvers on the road.
Tavares provided a firsthand perspective, stating, “I am living on a farm in the deep countryside of Portugal, and I often drive on the small roads around here.” He continued, “The acceleration power is first a matter of safety. It is first a matter of overtaking in safe conditions, making sure that you can change lanes, you can overtake a truck on a two-lane road.” Tavares clarified that the focus is not solely on speed but on the acceleration power that enables drivers to overtake safely.
The CEO, who often navigates challenging rural roads, expressed that the capability of EVs to accelerate swiftly enhances the overall safety of such maneuvers. According to Tavares, the ability to quickly overtake is a crucial safety measure, especially in scenarios where immediate acceleration is necessary to change lanes or overtake a truck. He emphasized that electric vehicles bring a level of capability that contributes to safer driving conditions.
In addressing concerns, Tavares acknowledged, “And there is nothing more difficult than starting to overtake a truck and then having to jump on the brakes because you just discovered that the acceleration of the car you’re driving is not good enough to overtake in safe conditions.” He emphasized that the acceleration capability of EVs is a safety measure, making overtaking safer and reducing the need for abrupt braking.
Tavares concluded by acknowledging the enjoyment that customers derive from the acceleration capabilities of EVs. He described the challenges faced by drivers of slower vehicles when attempting to overtake and how the acceleration power of EVs addresses these concerns, making overtaking safer.
While Tavares presented the viewpoint that rapid acceleration in EVs contributes to road safety, concerns have been raised about the potential risks associated with high-performance family cars sharing the road with less-experienced or distracted drivers. Critics question whether the widespread adoption of EVs with powerful acceleration poses challenges for overall road safety.
