New IIHS Automatic Emergency Braking Test Results: Significant Improvement or Business as Usual?

Recent tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have shown significant changes in the functioning of Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems in modern vehicles. In a new series of tests carried out in 2023, a recommendation was given for 12 tested models, which exhibited outstanding results in preventing accident situations involving pedestrians and vehicles.
This study utilized new testing methodologies aimed at assessing the effectiveness of AEB under various conditions. Test participants, including both popular models and new designs, demonstrated results that were markedly different from previous years. According to the institute, many vehicles succeeded in showing a substantial reduction in speed before a collision, allowing for the avoidance of serious accidents.
One of the key aspects of this new testing was its focus not only on systems responding to other vehicles but also on those designed to prevent collisions with pedestrians. As a result, consumers will find it easier to choose a vehicle equipped with a reliable automatic emergency braking system that performs effectively in real-world driving conditions.
Additionally, the tests revealed that manufacturers devoted to improving safety technologies gain advantages in the assessment of their models. The IIHS results will serve as a crucial indicator for both consumers and for vehicles manufactured with a focus on high safety standards.
IIHS will continue to conduct tests on a legal basis with the aim of evaluating new safety systems. Future changes in testing regulations may lead to even stricter criteria for AEB, which in turn will contribute to enhanced road safety.
Given the aforementioned situation, experts are confident that the current state of the automotive market is gradually shifting to become more safety-oriented, driven by new automatic braking systems verified by independent organizations.