NHTSA Delays New Safety Feature Updates for Automakers

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a postponement in enforcing new safety feature updates to its New Car Assessment Program, as requested by automakers.

In December, NHTSA had planned for the inclusion of features such as blind spot warning, blind spot intervention, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian automatic emergency braking in the 2026 model year. These updates were part of a broader effort to enhance vehicle safety standards.

However, following feedback from a group representing the majority of major automakers, NHTSA decided to delay the requirements until the 2027 model year, citing a lack of published test procedures for evaluating crashworthiness and pedestrian protection.