WASHINGTON — An upcoming proposed rule from NHTSA could drive improvements in a widely deployed crash-avoidance technology that has been reliable for many motorists but problematic for some.
The agency as early as this month is expected to issue a proposal to require automatic emergency braking, including pedestrian detection, on all new light-duty vehicles and set minimum performance standards, as mandated in the infrastructure law passed by Congress last year.
The technology has the potential to save lives and reduce injuries by stopping or slowing a vehicle to prevent a collision. But as the capability becomes common across all makes and models — not just luxury vehicles and higher trim levels — more consumer complaints of braking malfunctions have emerged.