BYD SUV Owner Opts for Full Loan Settlement After Highway Scare
SHAH ALAM, Malaysia: The owner of a fully electric BYD Atto 3 sport utility vehicle (SUV) has decided to part ways with the vehicle following a distressing incident that gained significant attention online. The decision to settle the loan in full was made, with BYD Sime Motors taking on the entire financial responsibility.
Safety Concerns Prompt Decision
Izwan Hassan, 33, expressed that his family’s safety was his top priority, leading him to this decision despite incurring a minor financial loss from the loan payments made during his 10 months of ownership. In a Facebook post, he acknowledged the professionalism of BYD Sime Motors in resolving the situation amicably by repurchasing the vehicle through a full settlement with the bank.
“I appreciate the professional conduct shown by BYD Sime Motors in resolving this matter amicably by repurchasing the vehicle through a full settlement with the bank. Although I did suffer a slight financial loss from the instalments paid, I am not willing to risk a repeat of the incident. My family’s safety is paramount,” he stated.
The Incident on the Highway
The alarming incident occurred on May 1 while Izwan and his family were traveling from Melaka to Penang. The electric SUV unexpectedly halted in the fast lane of the Cheras–Kajang Expressway while cruising at speeds between 90 and 100 km/h. Following the incident, the vehicle was taken to the BYD Glenmarie service center, where it remained for 12 days.
Initially, it was suspected that a faulty 12V battery was the cause of the malfunction. However, BYD later clarified that a defective sensor on the driver’s door triggered the vehicle’s safety system, leading to the abrupt halt.
Lack of Warning and Safety Concerns
Izwan recounted the terrifying experience, noting that the vehicle’s safety system activated without any prior warning. “They informed me that when the door sensor malfunctions, the vehicle’s safety system is automatically triggered. Hazard lights turn on instantly, the brakes engage abruptly, and the entire system shuts down,” he explained.
According to dashcam footage, the car began braking at 12:20:21 AM while traveling at 106 km/h and came to a complete stop just six seconds later. Izwan expressed his concern over the lack of warning before the emergency response, stating, “The tyres could not be turned even after shifting the gear to neutral. Everything happened so fast; we couldn’t react in time. The safety system is supposed to protect passengers, but in this case, it posed a danger.”
Community Reaction and Future Considerations
The incident has sparked widespread debate among netizens and electric vehicle (EV) owners regarding the reliability of automated systems that fail to provide early warnings during malfunctions. Reflecting on the ordeal, Izwan mentioned that the experience has made him more cautious in selecting a vehicle.
“For now, we’re exploring other vehicle options that offer stronger safety features and more reliable after-sales support. I’ve also learned not to be easily swayed by viral promotions on social media,” he said.