The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has introduced a new rule mandating automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems in all passenger vehicles by September 2029. However, the current technology falls short of meeting the NHTSA’s standards, which demand the capability to brake at speeds of up to 62 miles per hour and detect pedestrians both day and night.
NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman emphasized the need for more effective AEB systems, stating that while many vehicles already come equipped with AEB, the new standard aims for even greater effectiveness. The agency anticipates that this standard will annually save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce property damage.
Despite the ambitious goals, testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) revealed that current vehicles are not meeting crash prevention standards effectively. The IIHS updated its testing protocols to include higher-speed crash scenarios, with only a few vehicles earning a good rating.
Consumer advocates like William Wallace from Consumer Reports acknowledge that AEB technology has improved significantly in recent years and expect further enhancements given the five-year implementation window. However, automakers may need to invest in additional technologies, such as lidar sensors or thermal imaging, to improve AEB performance, especially in low-light conditions.
The new rule also requires vehicles to undergo rigorous testing to prevent false activation of AEB systems, which could increase costs for automakers. Recent reports of unexpected emergency braking activation in Honda vehicles prompted further investigation by the NHTSA, highlighting the importance of ensuring the reliability and safety of AEB systems.
