The auto industry regulators are implementing new rules to require improved automatic braking systems in new cars sold in the United States by September 2029, in order to prevent distracted driving and pedestrian fatalities on the rise. The new regulations will ensure that the systems automatically apply brakes to prevent crashes and pedestrian impacts, even at higher speeds and during nighttime driving. While automatic emergency braking (AEB) is already common in new vehicles in the U.S., these new requirements are expected to save hundreds of lives each year.
AEB is currently a standard feature on most new vehicles sold in the U.S. due to a voluntary agreement signed by automakers in 2016. The system uses sensors such as radar, sonar, or cameras to detect when a vehicle ahead has slowed down or stopped, and will automatically apply the brakes if the driver fails to respond in time. While AEB may not always prevent a crash, it can reduce the severity of impacts, with research showing a 50% reduction in rear-end collisions from these systems.
Vehicles with pedestrian detection add sensors or cameras to recognize pedestrians in front of the car and automatically stop the vehicle if the driver fails to respond. These systems can also reduce the severity of injuries to pedestrians in case of an impact. Studies have shown that AEB with pedestrian detection can reduce the risk of pedestrian injuries by about 30%. Pedestrian fatalities have increased significantly since 2009, making the implementation of these new regulations crucial in reducing fatalities and injuries.
The new NHTSA regulations will require AEB systems in vehicles to prevent collisions with other cars at speeds up to 62 miles per hour and stop before hitting pedestrians at speeds up to 45 miles per hour. The systems are also required to apply brakes at speeds up to 90 miles per hour to minimize the severity of crashes, even if they cannot entirely prevent them. However, the study found that current pedestrian detection systems are ineffective in low-light conditions, high speeds, or when the vehicle is turning, showing the need for improvement.
According to NHTSA, the new rules will prevent up to 360 deaths annually and 24,000 injuries, highlighting the significant impact of these improved automatic braking systems. Many new vehicles are already equipped with AEB, and it is expected that most cars and light trucks will meet the new standard ahead of the deadline, resulting in even more lives being saved due to this technology. The agency sees great potential for advancements in AEB technology to further enhance safety on the roads and reduce fatalities and injuries caused by crashes.
