Stellantis CEO Highlights Quick EV Acceleration as a Key Safety Feature

The Chief Executive Officer of Stellantis, Carlos Tavares, has brought a fresh perspective to the conversation around electric vehicles (EVs), asserting that quick EV acceleration is not just about performance, but it's a crucial safety feature. This statement offers a different viewpoint on the often-touted selling point of rapid acceleration in high-performance cars.

Safety in Speed: A New Perspective

During a recent interaction with journalists (reported by Top Gear), Tavares emphasized the importance of acceleration power primarily as a safety measure. The conventional view of acceleration in vehicles has been largely associated with speed and performance. However, Tavares argues that the real value lies in its ability to facilitate safe overtaking and lane-changing maneuvers, especially in potentially hazardous situations like passing a truck.

The instant acceleration characteristic of EVs provides drivers with the necessary power to execute these maneuvers safely and efficiently. This aspect of EVs, as pointed out by Tavares, underscores a vital function - ensuring the driver has adequate acceleration to overtake in safe conditions.

Stellantis' EV Strategy and Innovations

Stellantis has recently unveiled its second global EV platform, named STLA Large. The platform will power the first Jeep and Dodge EVs launching in the US this year. Stellantis boasts of this platform offering "segment-leading capabilities," including a range of up to 500 miles and power surpassing any existing Hellcat V-8 engines. This new platform will also underpin other Stellantis brands, such as Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, and Maserati.

Aiming for 50% of its US sales to be electric by 2030 (and 100% in Europe), Stellantis is positioning itself at the forefront of the EV market. The STLA Large platform is expected to be a significant contributor to this transition, especially with the rollout of the first Jeep and Dodge EVs.

Electrek's Commentary on EV Safety and Acceleration

The idea of quick EV acceleration as a safety feature resonates with many drivers who have experienced tense situations on highways, particularly when overtaking large vehicles like semi-trucks. The ability to accelerate quickly and safely around such obstacles without lag or risk of collision is a significant advantage.

As Tavares points out, the challenging scenario of starting to overtake and then having to abruptly brake due to insufficient acceleration power is all too common in conventional vehicles. This is where EV technology, with its immediate acceleration capability, shines.

While the primary appeal of EVs has often been their environmental benefits and performance characteristics, Tavares's comments bring to light an important, yet sometimes overlooked, aspect of EV technology: safety. Quick acceleration in EVs isn't just about the thrill of speed; it's about providing drivers with the necessary capability to navigate traffic safely and confidently.

=======

Source: Electrek