Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) is one of the most significant advancements in modern vehicle safety. Designed to help prevent accidents or reduce their severity, AEB uses sensors and cameras to detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if the driver does not react in time. This crucial safety technology was first introduced to the market by Volvo in 2009, the same people that introduced the 3-point seatbelt in cars. Originally thought of as a premium safety feature, many countries have recognised its role in public safety and some have even made it a mandatory fitment for all new cars.
With Australia now mandating AEB for all newly introduced vehicles, the nation joins a growing list of countries prioritising advanced safety technology in automobiles. The regulation, known as ADR 98/00, requires all new passenger and light commercial vehicles to be equipped with AEB from March 2023, with existing models following suit by March 2025.
How Autonomous Emergency Braking works?
AEB operates through a combination of radar, cameras, and sensors that continuously monitor the road ahead. The system typically functions in three key stages:
- Hazard Detection – Sensors and or cameras constantly monitor what’s in front of your car to identify a potential collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, or obstacle.
- Warning Stage – The system alerts the driver through visual (on the instrument cluster), audible (beeps and announcements), or haptic warnings (such as steering wheel or brake pedal vibrations).
- Braking Assistance – If the driver does not react in time, the AEB system automatically applies partial or full braking to either prevent or reduce the impact of a collision.
Some advanced AEB systems can even recognise cyclists and operate at higher speeds, improving safety in both urban and highway settings.
Why AEB is essential for road safety?
Studies have shown that vehicles equipped with AEB significantly reduce the number of rear-end crashes and lower the severity of accidents. According to international research, AEB-equipped cars can reduce rear-end collisions by up to 50%, making it a crucial tool in preventing road fatalities and injuries.
In Australia, where road accidents remain a major concern, the widespread adoption of AEB is expected to lead to:
- Fewer insurance claims and lower repair costs
- Reduced strain on emergency services
- Safer roads for both drivers and pedestrians
Read more: ANCAP’s official statement on AEB
Australia’s mandatory AEB rule: ADR 98/00
To further enhance road safety, the Australian Government introduced ADR 98/00, a regulation under the Australian Design Rules (ADR) framework. This mandates that all new passenger and light commercial vehicles sold from March 2023 must be fitted with AEB, with existing models required to comply by March 2025.
The new ruling aligns Australia with global safety standards set by regions such as Europe and the United States. However, this regulation has also created challenges for automakers, particularly those selling budget models or importing vehicles from markets where AEB is not yet a requirement.
Read more about the entire Australian Design Rules.
How ADR 98/00 impacts the Australian car market?
The introduction of ADR 98/00 has already begun reshaping the Australian automotive landscape. Some key effects include:
- Phase-Out of Older Models – Vehicles that do not support AEB will need to be upgraded or removed from sale. For example, long-running models such as the current Mitsubishi ASX will be discontinued as they do not comply with the new rules.
- Increased Car Prices – Budget-friendly vehicles may see price hikes as manufacturers incorporate AEB into their base models.
- Enhanced Consumer Safety – Buyers can now expect a higher level of safety across all new vehicles, reducing the need to opt for higher-spec models just to get essential safety features.
Looking ahead: The future of vehicle safety in Australia.
With ADR 98/00 in effect, Australia continues to push for safer roads through regulatory advancements. The adoption of AEB is just one part of a broader movement toward semi-autonomous driving technologies, with features such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control also gaining traction.
As manufacturers adapt to these changes, Australian consumers can expect a new standard of safety across all vehicles, marking a major step toward reducing road accidents and fatalities.
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