Pedestrian detection is a vital vulnerable-road-user safety function. Using a forward camera, often combined with radar, and software trained to recognise the shape and movement of people, the car identifies pedestrians in or approaching its path — including those stepping off a kerb or crossing ahead. When it judges a collision likely, it warns the driver and, if they don't respond, commands automatic emergency braking to stop or slow the car. Because pedestrian impacts are so often fatal, this capability is heavily weighted in NCAP testing and increasingly mandated. Advanced systems work at junctions and in low light, and pair with night vision for darkness; alongside cyclist detection it forms the core of pedestrian-and-cyclist crash protection.
- Recognises pedestrians with camera and radar
- Detects people crossing or stepping into the car's path
- Triggers warnings and automatic emergency braking
- Heavily weighted in NCAP tests; works with night vision