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Nissan’s Eco pedal can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%

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Got a heavy right foot? Nissan might have the cure. Japan’s third-largest automaker is working on an Eco pedal system. If onboard sensors detect what they think is too much pressure on the accelerator, leading to inefficient fuel use, then a servo-actuated system pushes back on the gas pedal.

The company’s own research has shown that such a system, combined with an immediate fuel consumption readout in the dash, can improve efficiency by 5% to 10%, depending on driving conditions. In a bid to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, Nissan not only is improving the technology in its cars, but it is also working on the nut behind the wheel: trying to change driver behavior.

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The Eco pedal system could start finding its way into Nissans as early as next year, though particular models and markets have yet to be determined. However, there’s a good chance that it could come Stateside. For all those drivers who insist on throttle pedal autonomy, the system can be switched on and off.

Colin Ryan

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