GM to Add Brake-Overrides by 2012
Monday, April 5th, 2010In the wake of continuing investigations into Toyota’s sticking pedal issues, General Motors Co. has announced that by the end of 2012, it will be adding more brake-override systems to its vehicles. Earlier today, it said that such systems will be added to all of their models worldwide that have automatic transmissions and electronic throttle controls.
According to GM spokesman Alan Adler, its vehicles either have brakes strong enough to allow a stop within 554 feet when traveling at 60 mph, or have override systems. Models sporting brake overrides already include the Cadillac CTS-V and STS-V, the Chevrolet Corvette, Camaro V8, Malibu L4, Colorado V8, Cobalt and HHR, and the GMC Canyon V8. He also said that adding the overrides to more of his company’s models will require the activation of a GM-developed algorithm that each vehicle’s brake system already includes.
In a statement to the press, GM Vice Chairman Tom Stephens said that installing this technology would give extra reassurance to consumers. Adding brake-overrides will also help GM be better prepared for any regulatory changes that may be caused by the aftermath of Toyota’s issues. Last month, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said that his agency may propose mandatory brake-override systems on all new vehicles. At that time only GM and Honda, among all major auto manufacturers, were without such systems – or firm plans to implement them – in their vehicles.
Automotive News reports that Toyota has issued a statement as well, stating that it will be installing brake-overrides on seven current models, and will introduce the system on all models for the American market by next year. Currently, about one-fifth of the U.S. Toyota vehicles sport this technology.
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