One of our customers in Des Moines just asked us: “What is AEB and ABS?” These are two critical technologies for stopping your vehicle quickly and safely.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Antilock Braking Systems (ABS). Though they both relate to braking, they serve very different purposes. So, what exactly are these systems, and how do they differ?
What is ABS?
Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) are designed to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, which helps maintain steering control and avoid skidding. ABS uses sensors on each wheel to detect when a wheel is about to lock up. When it senses a lock-up, the system rapidly pulses the brakes to prevent it, allowing the driver to maintain control of the vehicle. ABS requires the driver to apply the brakes manually. It’s especially useful in slippery conditions, like rain or ice, where skidding is more likely.
What is AEB?
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is a more recent advancement in vehicle safety technology. Unlike ABS, which requires driver input, AEB can act independently. AEB uses sensors to monitor the road ahead for potential collisions. If the system detects an imminent collision and the driver doesn’t react in time, it automatically applies the brakes to avoid or mitigate the impact. Some AEB systems only apply partial braking, requiring the driver to apply additional braking force to come to a complete stop.
Key Differences Between AEB and ABS
While both systems enhance vehicle safety, their functionalities and purposes are distinct:
1. Activation Method
- ABS: Activates when the driver applies the brakes and the system detects a wheel lock-up.
- AEB: Activates automatically when the system detects an imminent collision, even if the driver hasn’t applied the brakes.
2. Primary Function
- ABS: Prevents wheel lock-up to maintain steering control and avoid skidding.
- AEB: Prevents or reduces the severity of collisions by automatically applying the brakes.
3. Driver Involvement
- ABS: Requires the driver to initiate braking.
- AEB: Acts independently of the driver in emergency situations.
Variations of AEB
AEB technology comes in several forms, each designed to handle different types of potential collisions:
1. Standard AEB
Detects potential collisions with a vehicle ahead and automatically brakes to avoid or lessen the impact.
2. AEB with Pedestrian Detection (AEB-ped)
Detects potential collisions with pedestrians or bicyclists and automatically brakes to avoid or lessen the impact.
3. Rear Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB-rear)
Activates when the car is in reverse to prevent collisions or reduce impact force.
The Impact of AEB
Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shows that vehicles equipped with AEB and forward collision warning (FCW) reduce rear-end collisions by 50%. This significant reduction highlights the importance of AEB in modern vehicles. Think about those numbers. Out of every 1000 rear-end collisions, there would have been only 500 if they had AEB with FCW!
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recognized the importance of AEB, mandating that all passenger vehicles be equipped with AEB by September 2029. This rule aims to prevent crashes at speeds up to 65 mph, reduce the impact of crashes at speeds up to 90 mph, and avoid collisions with pedestrians at speeds up to 45 mph. According to NHTSA, this new requirement could save hundreds of lives and tens of thousands of injuries every year in America.
Both ABS and AEB are vital for vehicle safety, but they serve different purposes. ABS helps maintain control during emergency braking by preventing wheel lock-up, while AEB works to prevent collisions by automatically applying the brakes when a potential impact is detected. Understanding the differences between these systems can help drivers appreciate the technology that keeps them safe on the road.
Can a car have both AEB and ABS at the same time?
Yes! A car can have both Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Antilock Braking Systems (ABS) at the same time. In fact, most modern vehicles are equipped with both systems as part of their comprehensive safety package. Here’s how they work together to enhance vehicle safety:
ABS and AEB Complement Each Other: While AEB initiates braking in emergency situations to prevent or mitigate collisions, ABS ensures that the braking process does not lead to wheel lock-up, thereby maintaining steering control. With both systems in place, a car can better handle emergency situations by automatically braking to avoid collisions (AEB) while also preventing wheel lock-up to maintain control (ABS).
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