Viral Mustang Mach‑E Highway Incident Was Not Self‑Driving — Driver Arrested on Suspicion of DUI

What the viral video showed — and what the CHP found

A now‑widespread TikTok clip filmed by user Marty Byrde captured a green Ford Mustang Mach‑E sliding along a California highway barrier with the occupant behind the wheel appearing helpless. The short video suggested a “self‑driving” Mach‑E had lost control while ramming the concrete Jersey barrier — an image that quickly alarmed EV drivers and fans of active driver assistance systems.

California Highway Patrol clarification

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) in Redwood City has issued a preliminary statement that significantly changes the context: investigators found the Mach‑E was not operating in autonomous mode at the time of the crash. According to the CHP, the Mustang collided with a red Mitsubishi Mirage and then struck the right shoulder wall near the Holly Street overcrossing. Officers arrested the Mach‑E driver on suspicion of driving under the influence; another person sustained injuries in the incident.

Why context matters with short videos

Short‑form footage often lacks crucial context: speed, driver input, traffic conditions, and post‑impact actions are hard to judge from a single clip. The CHP emphasized that bodycam and scene investigations provide the full narrative and urged motorists to report dangerous driving via 9‑1‑1 rather than jump to conclusions based on a viral post.

BlueCruise, ADAS reputation and industry comparisons

The video was particularly striking because Ford’s BlueCruise system has earned strong marks among OEM active driver assistance systems (ADAS). Consumer Reports and other testing organizations have ranked BlueCruise highly against competitors such as GM’s Super Cruise and Tesla’s Autopilot. Still, the CHP’s finding underscores that even vehicles equipped with capable hands‑free tech are not immune to incidents when systems are not engaged or when driver behavior is impaired.

Mustang Mach‑E overview: specs, design and performance

The Mustang Mach‑E is Ford’s electric crossover that blends Mustang styling cues with a practical EV SUV layout. Key specifications vary by trim and drivetrain but typically include:

Battery and range

• Available in standard and extended battery options (varies by model year). Extended‑range packs deliver the longest EPA range, commonly topping 250–300+ miles on some RWD configurations.

Power and drivetrain

• RWD base models deliver brisk acceleration for everyday driving; dual‑motor AWD and performance GT variants raise output substantially. Higher‑end GT Performance Editions can approach 450–480 horsepower with sport‑tuned suspension for enthusiastic drivers.

Charging and efficiency

• DC fast‑charging capability supports rapid replenishment on public fast chargers (typical peak rates around 150 kW depending on network and model). Efficiency and battery health have proven solid for many owners; some high‑mileage examples report minimal battery degradation after long use.

Market positioning and competitors

The Mach‑E competes in the mainstream electric crossover segment against vehicles such as the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. Ford positions the Mach‑E as a performance‑oriented yet practical EV, offering a variety of trims from value‑focused to track‑capable versions. Current promotions in some markets have included attractive financing (0% APR for qualified buyers for up to 72 months) and retail bonus cash incentives.

Takeaways for buyers and enthusiasts

• Viral videos can mislead; official investigations are the authoritative source. The CHP determined this Mach‑E was not in autonomous mode when it crashed and arrested the driver on suspicion of DUI.
• BlueCruise and modern ADAS continue to improve, but responsible driver behavior remains essential — systems are assistance, not a substitute for a sober, attentive human operator.
• For buyers comparing EVs, evaluate real‑world range, charging network compatibility, ADAS capabilities, and how the vehicle’s performance fits your driving needs.

For readers interested in vehicle safety, further updates will come from the CHP as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, the incident is a reminder that technology and human factors both play critical roles in road safety.