Mercedes-Benz is a pioneer in automotive safety, with a long history of developing and implementing innovative technologies that protect not only the occupants of its vehicles but also other road users. One of the most remarkable achievements of the brand is the introduction of the pedestrian emergency braking system, which can detect and avoid collisions with pedestrians in various traffic situations. This system has been installed in more than 10 million Mercedes-Benz vehicles worldwide since 2011, saving countless lives and reducing injuries.
What is the pedestrian emergency braking system?
The pedestrian emergency braking system is a part of the Active Brake Assist feature, designed to assist the driver in braking in case of an imminent collision with a vehicle, a stationary object, or a pedestrian. The system uses a combination of radar and camera sensors to monitor the road ahead and detect potential hazards. If the system detects a pedestrian in the danger zone before the vehicle, it first warns the driver with a visual and acoustic signal. If the driver does not react, the system initiates partial braking to reduce the speed and the impact force. If the driver still does not react, the system can apply full braking to bring the vehicle to a stop before hitting the pedestrian or to minimize the consequences of the collision.
How effective is the pedestrian emergency braking system?
According to a German Insurance Association (GDV) study, the pedestrian emergency braking system can prevent up to 36% of pedestrian accidents and reduce the severity of another 43%. The study also found that the system can reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities by up to 40%. Another European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) study showed that the system can reduce the risk of pedestrian injuries by up to 74%. The system has also received positive feedback from customers and experts, who appreciate its reliability and performance in various scenarios.
How does Mercedes-Benz improve the pedestrian emergency braking system?
Mercedes-Benz is constantly improving the pedestrian emergency braking system by enhancing its functionality and expanding its availability. The system has evolved from the first generation, which could only detect pedestrians in daylight and at speeds up to 31 mph, to the fifth generation, which can detect pedestrians in the dark and at speeds up to 81 mph. The system can also detect cyclists, cross-traffic, and stationary vehicles and can work in conjunction with other safety features, such as Pre-Safe, which prepares the car and the occupants for an impending collision. The system is now available as standard or as an option in almost all Mercedes-Benz models, from the compact A-Class to the flagship S-Class.
What are the benefits of the pedestrian emergency braking system?
The pedestrian emergency braking system is a valuable technology that can help drivers avoid or mitigate pedestrian accidents, which are among the most serious and frequent types of road crashes. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 270,000 pedestrians are killed on the roads every year, accounting for 22% of all road traffic fatalities. Pedestrians are also more vulnerable to severe injuries, such as head trauma, spinal cord damage, and internal bleeding, which can have long-term consequences for their health and quality of life. By reducing the number and severity of pedestrian accidents, the pedestrian emergency braking system can save lives, prevent injuries, and decrease road trauma's social and economic costs.
Conclusion
Mercedes-Benz is a leader in pedestrian safety, with a decade of experience and innovation in developing and deploying the pedestrian emergency braking system. This system has proven to be effective and reliable in preventing or reducing pedestrian accidents and has been installed in more than 10 million Mercedes-Benz vehicles worldwide. The system is a testament to the brand’s commitment to making the roads safer for everyone and to achieving its vision of accident-free driving.
