AAA has released new research indicating that 2024 model vehicles equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems are significantly more effective at avoiding forward collisions than older models from 2017-2018. The study, conducted in collaboration with the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, tested both old and new vehicles under controlled conditions. Results showed that newer models avoided collisions entirely at speeds up to 35 mph, while older models only managed a 51% success rate.
Automatic emergency braking systems utilize forward-facing cameras and sensors to detect imminent crashes and apply brakes automatically. This technology is now standard in most new vehicles, following a recent mandate by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) requiring AEB inclusion in all vehicles by 2029.
AAA's decade-long evaluation of advanced driver assistance systems has shown consistent improvements in AEB performance. The latest findings underscore the advancements made over time, particularly in low-speed scenarios where newer systems can prevent collisions altogether.
Despite these improvements, AAA advises drivers not to rely solely on AEB systems for safety. "Never rely solely on technology to apply the brakes," they caution, emphasizing the importance of attentive driving even with advanced safety features.
The study also explored AEB effectiveness at higher speeds, revealing limitations as speed increases. While three out of four vehicles avoided collisions at 45 mph, none succeeded at 55 mph. These results highlight the need for ongoing development of AEB systems capable of handling high-speed scenarios.
Encouraged by NHTSA's recent rule requiring vehicles to avoid forward collisions at speeds up to 62 mph by 2029, AAA suggests automakers focus on enhancing AEB systems for high-speed situations and improving forward collision warning alerts to provide drivers with more reaction time.
The research methodology involved testing early and late model vehicles from the same manufacturer on a closed-course roadway using specific equipment designed to simulate real-world conditions.