DETROIT (AP) — U. S. auto safety regulators are investigating court cases in which some Ram trucks and Jeep Wagoneer SUVs may lose power, parking and emergency braking.
The investigation announced Monday by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers about 150,000 vehicles made by Stellantis starting with the 2022 design year. All feature the company’s 5. 7-litre Hemi e-Torque mild hybrid formula that will allow the vehicle to propel itself forward.
The company says the formula converts captured braking force into straining certain electrical components. The formula features a 48-volt battery and a motor-generator that sends power to the crankshaft’s gear changes.
But the company says it has won 80 court cases from homeowners who claim engines can be shut down at low revs and sometimes can’t be restarted.
The firm says investigators will examine the affected models, how the problem occurs and the cause of the engine stalling. NHTSA would likely request a recall.
Stellantis says it is cooperating with the investigation and that any owner who sees symptoms in their vehicle contact their dealership.