Toyota Prius Loses It on US Freeway
Just when Toyota thought it was safe to launch into ‘image repair’ mode, a Prius has allegedly run away on its owner on a US freeway. Investigators are examining 61-year-old James Sikes’ ’08 Prius, which allegedly accelerated of its own volition to 140km/h – for 20 minutes – near San Diego.
James Sikes: Suddenly not a Prius supporter
Tragedy was averted when Highway patrol officers pulled in front to act as a rolling stopper and, via loudspeaker, got Sikes to jam on both the brakes and the park brake while hard up against the patrol car’s bumper. Sikes’ earlier attempts to turn the engine off had failed. According to NPR, the incident occurred just two weeks after Mr Sikes visited a local dealership with his recall notice – but was turned away.