While multiple car manufacturers globally have pledged to implement Auto Emergency Braking (AEB) in their light-duty vehicles, there is a discrepancy in the global adoption of this safety feature. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported on the progress made by 20 participating automakers in fulfilling their voluntary commitment to equip nearly all their light vehicles for the U.S. market with AEB.
- Fulfillment of Voluntary Pledge: All 20 participating automakers have successfully fulfilled their voluntary pledge to equip a significant majority of light vehicles produced for the U.S. market with automatic emergency braking (AEB).
- Deadline Achievement: Five new manufacturers met the deadline set in the agreement by installing AEB on over 95% of their light vehicles produced between September 1, 2022, and August 31, 2023. Notably, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Maserati, and Porsche significantly increased the proportion of their vehicles equipped with AEB to meet the target, while Kia crossed the finish line.
- Manufacturers Meeting Commitment in Previous Years: Several manufacturers, including Audi, BMW, Ford/Lincoln, Honda/Acura, Hyundai/Genesis, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan/Infiniti, Stellantis, Subaru, Tesla, Toyota/Lexus, Volkswagen, and Volvo, had previously fulfilled the voluntary commitment in earlier years.
- Performance Standards: Manufacturers must attest that the AEB system on their vehicles meets specific performance standards. This includes forward collision warning meeting NHTSA’s requirements on the timing of driver alerts. The AEB system must demonstrate the ability to slow the vehicle by specified speeds in crash tests contributing to advanced crash prevention ratings.
- Threshold Inclusion: More than three-quarters of automakers meet the 95% threshold, even when manual-transmission vehicles are included in their production totals. Some manufacturers, producing heavier vehicles in the range of 8,500-10,000 pounds, also meet the threshold, with notable achievements by Mercedes-Benz and Nissan.
- Remaining Challenges: While progress has been made, challenges persist, particularly for certain manufacturers in equipping all their heavier vehicles with AEB. Stellantis, for example, is approaching the target but has not yet reached the 2025 goal.
- Expected Impact: IIHS anticipates that the voluntary commitment will prevent 42,000 crashes and 20,000 injuries by 2025. The estimate is based on research showing that front crash prevention systems with both forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking can significantly reduce rear-end crashes.
The global initiative by automakers to implement AEB reflects a collective commitment to enhancing vehicle safety. While significant strides have been made continued efforts are essential to address remaining challenges. Also ensure the widespread adoption of crucial safety features ultimately contributing to a reduction in crashes and injuries on the road.