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.
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.