While driving in traffic on the highway at about 20-30 mph, traffic in my lane slowed further. In response, I applied what should have been an adequate amount of brake pressure to slow down and stop if needed given the following distance I had left. Initially I progressively applying more braking pressure, but after a ~3 seconds of this I slammed the brake down. Instead, the vehicle did not slow as expected in the following ~5 seconds. Despite having slammed on the brake at that point, the vehicle only then showed the emergency braking alert and emergency braked in addition to my foot being fully down on the brake. However, this was too late as my passenger and I rear-ended a Toyota Tacoma. They and myself have filed against my insurance, so there is an accident on my car report that I know has depreciated my new vehicle’s value. Although I do not currently have the Toyota’s estimate, I believe I can ask the owner or my insurance for this. Previously, I had several rear-ending close calls in the car when in traffic and I knew that I often struggled to slow down at stop lights when they first turn yellow. As a result, I’ve often sped up to beat the red since I knew my vehicle struggles to brake in time. My car is currently being repaired by the closest dealership to my SO, but I no longer trust the vehicle. I believe my hybrid maverick does not adequately mechanically brake since it over relies on the weaker regenerative braking. The dealer has attempted to replicate the issue at this point but my vehicle is available for further inspection upon request. I am happy to answer any additional questions.
NHTSA ODI 11496708