27.06.2026 13:09
A groundbreaking step was taken in the US to disrupt the norms of future automotive technology. An official process has been initiated to eliminate the requirement for manual brake pedals in vehicles designed solely for use by autonomous driving systems.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), under the U.S. Department of Transportation, has initiated a rulemaking process to remove the requirement for a manual brake pedal in vehicles designed solely for use by autonomous driving systems.
OTHER BRAKING PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS, INCLUDING STOPPING DISTANCE, WILL BE RETAINED
In a statement from NHTSA, it was noted that the need for conventional equipment such as windshield wipers or rearview mirrors in vehicles not intended for human use is being reassessed.
The statement indicated that a rule change has been proposed to eliminate the requirement for a manual brake pedal in vehicles designed exclusively for use by autonomous driving systems, but emphasized that other braking performance requirements, including strict stopping distance standards, will be maintained.
NO CHANGE FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES WITH MANUAL DRIVING CONTROLS
The statement conveyed that for autonomous vehicles with manual driving controls, all existing standard requirements will continue to apply.
NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison, in his assessment of the issue, highlighted the need to redesign the regulatory framework to position the U.S. as a leader in autonomous driving technologies.
Morrison emphasized that while removing senseless barriers in front of innovative designs, they are strengthening important basic safety requirements, and noted that this approach will ultimately reduce road accidents, save lives, and increase mobility.