Because electronic throttle links have replaced the cable or pushrod linkages that used to control engine speed, there is a possibility that electronic malfunctions can cause the driver to lose control of the engine’s speed.
Numerous cases of alleged unintended acceleration have made consumers especially wary of the potential hazards of the electronic or “drive by wire” systems that increasingly control our vehicles.
Hyundai said the likelihood of problems with these systems is extremely low, but it is seeking to reassure drivers that they will be able to keep their cars from getting away from them if something goes wrong with the throttle.
“With Hyundai’s brake pedal throttle override capability, any brake pedal input by the driver, even with a runaway throttle condition, completely overrides any throttle malfunction,” said Robert Babcock, director of certification and compliance affairs for Hyundai’s technical center. “It is no longer possible to have increasing engine power once the brake pedal is depressed by the driver,” he said.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is considering including a brake pedal throttle override requirement in its motor vehicle regulations but has not yet approved a rule.
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