The Thatcham motor insurance research centre in the UK investigated the potential impact of autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and found that thousands of accidents could be prevented, or the effect lessened, if all cars were fitted with the technology from next year.
AEB uses a combination of laser and radar to detect an imminent collision with an obstacle in front of the car, and the automatically applies the brakes. If the driver fails to respond, the system brings the car to a complete halt.
Many car manufacturers currently fit these AEB systems as optional or standard on selected models in their range.
