IAG has conducted industry-first research into the use of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) systems and called for its wider use.

Research previously conducted by the insurer has found that 80% of road collisions occur at low speeds. By using laser, radar or camera technology, or a combination of the three, AEB systems can help mitigate and prevent the most common types of road crashes.

“Our findings demonstrate the potential of AEB in reducing real-world crashes and we hope more vehicle manufacturers will include the technology as standard on all models,” IAG head of research Robert McDonald said.

“We want to see these systems continually improve and operate in increasingly challenging environments for vehicles travelling at higher speeds and even while reversing.”

In the testing, IAG developed two test vehicles made from the rear end of a current model sedan. The AEB systems were tested against both vehicles to determine whether the technology could successfully avoid a collision or reduce the severity of a crash.

The research found that while there was a variation in performance, all systems “provide a worthwhile benefit.”

However, the technology was not perfect. Some AEB systems failed to fully recognise the target which led to read-end collisions.

The use of autonomous technology in vehicles has the potential to prompt dramatic change in the insurance industry. Last year, Accenture Financial Services predicted that driverless technology could wipe out US$20 billion in premiums by 2020.


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