Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) systems start braking automatically if a collision is imminent and the driver is not taking any action (or is not doing so fast enough). AEB is able to detect a potential collision and activate the braking system to decelerate the vehicle with the purpose of avoiding a collision, or at least mitigating its impact.
AEB is part of the ‘second wave’ of active safety measures – using cutting-edge technology such as on-board sensors, radar, cameras, GPS and lasers – that is being fitted to passenger cars.
Active safety technology can prevent accidents from happening altogether or at least actively help the driver to reduce the impact of an emergency situation. Active systems give the driver more control in dangerous situations. To that end, various safety systems constantly monitor the performance and surroundings of a vehicle.
Simply put, active safety systems avoid or mitigate an accident pre-impact – so before it happens or contact is made.