A Norwegian YouTuber demonstrating the challenge of driving on frosty roads with regenerative brakes. (Bjørn Nyland/YouTube)
Toronto, Ontario — A complaint posted to Facebook by a Tesla Model Y owner reveals a design flaw that likely affects vehicles beyond Tesla’s model range—regenerative braking systems that may unintentionally kick in, drifting the vehicle when the driver expects to stop.
Where traditional brakes prioritize stopping the vehicle, regenerative brakes focus on capturing lost energy. This compromise results in a higher chance of hydroplaning, and causing cool (but dangerous) car tricks, wet pedestrians or a dented vehicle
According to AutoEvolution, this problem has more to do with regenerative braking systems than Tesla or the Model Y. However, it was significant enough to prompt a Change.org petition calling on Tesla to develop a snow mode, allowing drivers to tweak the regenerative brakes for slippery weather.
While this driver was questioned regarding his driving skills, comments in the thread indicate that this is an old problem in Norway and Canada, rather than a skill deficiency.
The thread has since been taken down, likely due to the harassment faced by the driver.
