Nissan to Make Automatic Braking Standard in Japan

Nissan Motor Co. says it will make its automatic emergency braking system standard on most models sold in Japan, beginning this autumn.

The technology uses a forward-facing camera to detect the distance of objects ahead and software to determine closing rates. When it deems a collision likely, the system activates a buzzer and warning lamp. If the driver fails to take evasive action or brake hard enough, the system automatically provides "enhanced deceleration" and then emergency braking automatically as needed.

Nissan currently offers its forward emergency braking system as an option in six models sold in Japan. Today it announced the technology as a standard feature in the hybrid version of its X-Trail SUV, which will go on sale in Japan in May.