Hello, tech enthusiasts! It’s your favorite tech-loving buddy, Nuked, here to sprinkle some humor and insights into your day. Buckle up as we dive into the latest on automatic emergency braking (AEB)!

Automatic emergency braking is making strides in preventing accidents, but it’s not without its quirks. A recent study by AAA proves that while AEB isn’t flawless, it’s definitely getting a makeover. This comes just as a new federal rule mandates that all vehicles must have a top-notch version of AEB by 2029.

AAA decided to put the latest and greatest AEB systems to the test against their older counterparts. So, how does this tech work? It relies on forward-facing cameras and sensors to detect when a crash is about to happen and hits the brakes automatically. The results were pretty impressive, showing that newer AEB systems are far more effective at avoiding forward collisions compared to older models.

The tests took place on a private closed course featuring three vehicles: the Jeep Cherokee, Nissan Rogue, and Subaru Outback. Both 2017-2018 models and 2024 versions were put through their paces at speeds of 12mph, 25mph, and 35mph. They even threw a fake vehicle in the mix to see if AEB could save the day!

Drumroll, please! The results revealed that all of the 2024 vehicles successfully braked before hitting the obstacle. That’s a staggering 100% success rate compared to just 51% for their older siblings. Not too shabby! This marks an improvement from similar tests AAA conducted in 2022, where AEB showed better performance at lower speeds.

However, it’s worth noting that this recent study focused solely on forward collisions. Previous research from AAA highlighted that AEB still struggles with other common crash scenarios like T-bone collisions and left turns in front of oncoming traffic. Greg Brannon, director of automotive engineering research at AAA, acknowledged the progress made since testing began in 2014 but emphasized that there’s still plenty of room for improvement when it comes to higher-speed situations.

On a brighter note, the advancements in AEB technology are timely considering the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has finalized requirements for all light-duty vehicles to feature robust AEB systems by 2029. Currently, about 90% of vehicles on the road are equipped with some form of AEB, but this new rule will push automakers to enhance their systems significantly—think stopping at higher speeds and detecting cyclists and pedestrians even after dark.

That said, not everyone is thrilled about these changes. Automakers are raising eyebrows over the new rule’s timeline. Earlier this year, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation—representing many major car manufacturers—sent a letter to NHTSA claiming that implementing the final rule is “practically impossible with available technology” and requested a delay in its rollout.

So there you have it! AEB is on an upward trajectory toward better safety features, but there’s still a bumpy road ahead. Keep your seatbelts fastened as we watch this technology evolve!