What important feature might become optional in self-<b>driving vehicles</b>?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration this week proposed changes to federal requirements that would make brake pedals optional in autonomous vehicles. Under current regulations in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, each and every car in the U.S. must have manual brake controls. Those who manufacture self-driving cars can apply for an exemption but can only sell 2,500 vehicles with such modifications per year.

Under the new rule, autonomous vehicles would be allowed to forego the brake pedal without getting an exemption. They would still need to meet the same criteria for stopping distance performance as other vehicles, but under different testing procedures. The proposal is currently in a 30-day public comment period, after which it will go to the U.S. Department of Transportation for approval.