Last month, Nissan held its annual Advanced Technology Briefing where they showed off the latest automotive technology that drivers can look forward to seeing soon. The two main attractions of the event were their Active Engine Braking and Autonomous Emergency Steering, and from the looks of it, these new systems could greatly improve driving safety and ease.
To put it simply, Active Engine Braking changes the way that people steer. A video released by Nissan explains that in a car with a traditional steering system, the car’s tires are controlled by a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and tires. To contrast, a car with Active Engine Braking converts steering input information from the steering wheel into electronic signals that turn the tires. Also, Active Engine Braking picks up information like rough terrain, a sloped road, or a cross-wind and automatically makes adjustments for the driver.
The Autonomous Emergency Steering works with the Active Engine Braking to prevent accidents caused by driver error. The system uses cameras in the car to detect any objects, people, or animals in its way and then map a route to avoid hitting any obstacles. It does not kick in unless absolutely necessary, so drivers still have plenty of time to steer clear, but the system could help a driver in a high-stress situation like avoiding a child that ran out into the street or a deer running onto the road.
Not everyone is happy about these new systems, though. Jalopnik’s headline read “The Amazing New Car Tech That Enables You To Drive Like A Moron,” and several commenters on Nissan’s YouTube video were disappointed with the changes. One said, “Goodbye steering feel,” and another accused Nissan of taking away the “joy of driving.” Some commenters came to Nissan’s defense and pointed out that while it might not be right for every driver or car, it would provide a smoother and safer ride for most drivers.
Readers, what do you think? Do you want Active Engine Braking and Autonomous Emergency Steering in your car? Leave a comment below, and tell us what you think!
Are you looking to get into a new or used car? Approved Loan Store can help! Good credit, bad credit, no credit, we will work with you to get you a car you want at terms you can afford! Fill out our secure online auto loan application here, and be sure to like Approved Loan Store on Facebook, follow Approved Loan Store on Twitter, and subscribe to Approved Loan Store on YouTube!