This probably isn't what happened, but I think in this context we need to remember that it is perfectly benign and normal to have software in the ECU for detect

This probably isn't what happened, but I think in this context we need to remember that it is perfectly benign and normal to have software in the ECU for detecting an emissions or motor test. Modern cars have a lot of sensors and environmental inputs. A motor or emissions test then is quite abnormal in that some sensors will report standstill while you are going full throttle. The ECU needs to make sure it doesn't detect this as an abnormal system state and brake, shut the engine or otherwise perform corrective action that could put the test system or personnel in danger.