In Paraná, Brazil, a malfunction in the newly implemented 'free flow' electronic toll system has caused significant overcharging for motorists. One pickup truck driver experienced a toll charge of R$ 103.20 due to the system erroneously identifying his vehicle as a truck, instead of charging the correct price of R$ 17.20. This incident highlights ongoing issues since the system began operations on February 23, prompting concerns among local drivers about its reliability.

The situation became more concerning for motorists, as at least three individuals have reported similar cases to RPC, a TV Globo affiliate. One unidentified resident faced two charges while passing through the Santa Lúcia toll; one charge aligned with the correct rate while the other was inflated by six times. The system's failure to accurately read vehicle types raises questions about the technology's consistency and fairness regarding toll assessments in the region.

EPR Iguaçu, the concessionaire responsible for the toll section, has acknowledged that the erroneous charges were due to interference from other large vehicles, leading to incorrect readings. This incident poses broader implications for the efficacy of automated toll systems, necessitating immediate review and corrective measures to restore public confidence in the system and ensure fair billing practices for all vehicle types.