Landmark Rule on Automatic Emergency Braking Remains Unchanged

Landmark Rule on Automatic Emergency Braking Remains Unchanged

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reaffirmed its landmark rule, finalized in April 2023, mandating the installation of advanced automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems in nearly all new cars and trucks by 2029.

Automakers Call for Reconsideration

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing major automakers such as General Motors, Toyota, and Volkswagen, has expressed concerns about the feasibility of the requirement to stop and avoid striking vehicles at speeds up to 62 miles per hour (100 kph), claiming it is “practically impossible with available technology.” The Alliance urged NHTSA to reconsider the rule.

NHTSA Rejects Request with Clarifications

NHTSA has rejected the Alliance’s request for reconsideration but has announced clarifications to the technical requirements and a correction to the test scenario for obstructed pedestrians.

Safety Impact and Industry Response

NHTSA estimates that the new rule will save at least 360 lives annually and prevent 24,000 injuries, addressing concerns over rising traffic deaths. In 2016, 20 automakers voluntarily pledged to make AEB standard on nearly all U.S. vehicles by 2022, and by December 2023, 95% of vehicles were equipped with AEB. However, critics argue that government regulations are necessary for ensuring effectiveness.

Congress Mandate and Enforcement

Congress directed NHTSA to establish minimum performance standards for AEB systems through the 2021 infrastructure law. The agency proposed a three-year implementation timeline in March 2023, which has now been extended to five years.

Alliance CEO’s Criticism

John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance, denounced the decision as “wrong on the merits, wrong on the science,” and a “disastrous decision” that will unnecessarily increase vehicle costs and fail to improve safety. Bozzella also appealed to President-elect Donald Trump to reconsider the regulation.