Will Eco Pedal Change Your Driving Style?

The simple answer is yes!
But will it really catch on? Nissan has said it has developed an accelerator pedal that is designed to assist drivers to become more fuel-efficient. So in many ways it appeals to purse and planet conscious drivers. It claims a world-first for the technology which could improve fuel efficiency by at least 10% and be introduced on some models as early as 2009. Soaring fuel prices and global warming concerns are pressuring automakers such as Nissan to introduce more eco-friendly products and they are also trying to add value by improving safety features on all newer model designs.

How does the eco pedel work?
Well, the technology involved will make the pedal press upward whenever the vehicle is moving too quickly for your own good. According to Nissan, this system is able to improve fuel efficiency. The Eco Pedal has been programmed to calculate the most efficient rate of acceleration in a vehicle, and it might cause the driver to be frustrated with their cars especially when they feel like a quick overtake. A meter on the dashboard flashes and changes colours to help drive the message home and it can be over-ridden if things are really just getting too much for you.


Other Developments
Nissan has also developed a test model packed with additional sensor technology to make vehicles crash-free. The collision-free prototype has sensors at the sides and rear that activate alarms and brake the car to help avoid collisions. The system also helps the vehicle maintain a safe distance from the car in front and prevents it from veering off its lane. Nissan has said it hopes to cut the number of traffic accidents by 50% on serious injuries involving Nissan vehicles in Japan by 2015, compared to 20 years ago.