Bosch Touts “Active” Gas Pedal

Robert Bosch GmbH says its new “active” accelerator pedal can help drivers reduce fuel consumption by as much as 7% and alert them to potential safety risks.

The system provides haptic feedback—either a counterforce or slight vibration—through the foot pedal. Based on information from the engine, transmission, telematics and other networked vehicle functions, the system prompts driver action to optimize fuel efficiency under a variety of conditions.

This includes notifying drivers when it’s best to shift gears, coast on declines and back off the gas pedal slightly for smoother acceleration. Bosch estimates that drivers can benefit from the coasting function on nearly one-third of all trips.

In cars with hybrid-electric drivetrains, the active pedal also can indicate when the combustion engine is about to take over from the electric motor so drivers can reduce speed and save fuel.

From a safety standpoint, the active pedal can interact with the navigation system and onboard cameras and sensors to provide haptic feedback when a vehicle is approaching a sharp bend too fast or is exceeding the speed limit. In future connected vehicles, the system also could warn drivers about upcoming hazards such as crossing traffic, emergency vehicles, unexpected congestion and vehicles driving in the wrong direction on a one-way street.

The active pedal system can include various functions based on carmaker requirements. The type and force of the feedback can be tailored by changing software settings, Bosch notes.