NHTSA Proposes Brake Override Standard

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has proposed a mandatory brake override system for cars, trucks and buses that weigh less than 10,000 lbs. The technology would cut engine power if the brake and accelerator pedals are pressed simultaneously.

The agency will collect public comment on the proposal for 60 days. The measure would modify FMVSS 124, the safety standard for accelerator control systems, and apply to vehicles equipped with electronic throttle control. NHTSA proposes to require full compliance about two years after the rule is adopted.

NHTSA notes that many carmakers already have brake-accelerator override systems. The technology makes it easier to stop a vehicle whose accelerator has jammed, but it does not intervene if a driver tries to brake but mistakenly presses only the accelerator pedal instead.

The proposal also would set new test procedures regarding the fail-safe "return-to-idle" mode for all vehicles equipped with electronic throttle control, regardless of their weight. The new rule would allow a maximum 31 mph "creep" speed the terminal speed a vehicle can reach under its own power with no input from the driver even if the accelerator control system is disconnected.

The NHTSA proposal can be viewed online by clicking HERE.