The Australian Federal Government has announced the mandatory integration of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) systems for new passenger and light-goods vehicle models entering the market.
The new legislation outlines that AEB systems which can detect collisions with other vehicles are required to be installed in all new vehicle models from March 2023 and all other new vehicles from March 2025.
AEB systems which can detect collisions with pedestrians and other vehicles are expected to be found in all new vehicle models in Australia by August 2024 and in all other new vehicles from August 2026.
“Vehicle technology has an important role to play in reducing road trauma, which is why we have introduced new standards that mean AEB systems must be installed in all new light vehicles,” Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Kevin Hogan said.
“There will be a progressive roll out of the new standards, which will start to apply from March 2023 – giving manufacturers the time needed to effectively make the transition.
AEB systems effectively detect the likelihood of a possible forward collision and apply the breaks automatically to prevent an accident. The technology is already common in new vehicle models but with the new standard applied, all vehicles will be expected to have the safety technology.
“Today’s announcement by the Australian Government to mandate autonomous emergency braking is a welcome step in closing the gap to ensure all new vehicles are equipped with this life-saving technology,” ANCAP chief executive Carla Hoorweg says.
“This is a significant achievement, and the automotive industry is to be congratulated for its efforts in achieving such a high fitting rate ahead of regulatory intervention.
“Voluntary fitment alone however cannot achieve full market coverage. The mandating of AEB will push manufacturers that have been slow to introduce this technology to catch up – ensuring 100% of new Australian vehicles will have the benefit of AEB from March 2025,” she says.
