NHTSA Proposes Brake Override Standard

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has proposed a mandatory brake override system for cars, trucks and buses.

The technology cuts engine power if the brake and accelerator pedals are pressed simultaneously. The system ensures that a driver could stop a vehicle if its accelerator jams, but it would not intervene if the operator attempted to brake but pressed only the accelerator by mistake.

The rule would apply to all vehicles that weigh 10,000 lbs or less and are equipped with electronic throttle control. NHTSA notes that many vehicles already have brake-accelerator override systems.

The agency will collect public comment on the proposal for 60 days. It says the standard would become mandatory about two years after being adopted.