Efforts are being intensified in South Korea to develop technology that can prevent accidents resulting from drivers mistakenly pressing the accelerator. (Image courtesy of Kobiz Media)
SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Korea Bizwire) — Efforts are being intensified in South Korea to develop technology that can prevent accidents resulting from drivers mistakenly pressing the accelerator.
According to automotive industry sources on January 14, the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (KOTSA) is conducting a technology demand survey until January 26, targeting universities, research institutes, companies, and stakeholders nationwide. This survey is part of the process for selecting targets for research and development support.
This initiative reflects concerns about the increase in accidents due to pedal misapplication, especially as South Korea enters an era of an aging population and rising electric vehicle (EV) adoption. KOTSA notes that the widespread adoption of electric cars, known for their rapid acceleration, could lead to more severe accidents if pedals are misapplied.
KOTSA reports that between 2018 and 2022, there were 82 domestic accidents reported due to pedal misapplication, with about 40% involving drivers aged 60 and above.
KOTSA plans to kick off this technology demand survey with the aim of developing systems that can control vehicle speed through voice commands or emergency switches when pedal misapplication occurs. The aim is also to integrate these systems with other Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for better vehicle control.
Furthermore, KOTSA intends to develop standards, procedures, and equipment for evaluating vehicle safety. These will determine whether a car is equipped with safety technologies and devices that can prevent pedal misapplication.
For context, since 2018, Japan’s New Car Assessment Program (JNCAP) includes safety evaluation criteria for devices that inhibit driving when the driver mismanages pedals or gear levers.
The European Union (EU) is also planning to include evaluations for unintended acceleration due to pedal misapplication in its New Car Assessment Program (Euro-NCAP) starting from 2026.
KOTSA emphasized the urgency of developing and disseminating pedal misapplication prevention technology, stating, “With the recent increase in suspected sudden acceleration incidents, conflicts over driver error and vehicle defects have intensified. Most cases are identified as pedal misapplication, highlighting the dire need for technology to prevent such errors.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
