Broad automobile safety legislation introduced by the Senate on Tuesday would set new standards for electronic controls, stopping distance, push-button ignition systems and data recorders. The legislation follows the recalls of more than nine million Toyota vehicles worldwide since the fall, including two major recalls for problems with sticking accelerator pedals. It also comes a week after House lawmakers unveiled their own auto safety measure. Both are titled the Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 2010, but the Senate bill has several notable features. In addition to requiring a standard governing the safety of electronic vehicle controls, the bill would require automobiles to be able to stop within a certain distance, even with an open throttle; institute a minimum distance between accelerator and brake pedals and the vehicle floor; and establish standards on keyless ignition systems, among other provisions.Read more from the New York Times.
Auto Safety Bill Includes Standard for Electronic Controls
