Automakers Request Delay for Pedestrian-Alert System
Automakers are requesting a delay for mandated pedestrian-alert systems in hybrids and electric vehicles.
The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and the Association of Global Automakers have asked the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to delay the phase-in period for mandatory pedestrian alert systems on hybrids and electric vehicles from 2016 to 2018. The two groups expressed that automakers will have “very little time to develop and put into production compliant systems in time to meet a September 1, 2018 deadline.” If NHTSA isn’t able or willing to establish a September 2018 effective date without a phase-in, the groups have recommended the phase-in period to not start until September 1, 2017.
SEE ALSO: Toyota Prius To Be Offered With Pedestrian Alert System In Japan
Automakers aren’t the only ones concerned about the short period of time between adoption of a final rule and the phase-in period. According to the two groups, supplier Denso International America Inc. has said it would need at least three years to properly develop pedestrian-alert systems that comply with federal requirements.
Last year, NHTSA proposed rules that would require electrified vehicles to make a minimum sound to alert pedestrians of approaching vehicles. Toyota has used a similar technology in its Prius model in Japan since 2010.
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[Source: Automotive News]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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