Drivers will soon have a new weapon in their efforts to become more eco-conscious with the arrival of Nissan’s ECO Pedal.

The ECO Pedal system works by providing a counter push-back control mechanism if activated, every time a driver puts his or her foot on the accelerator. The system detects excess pressure and informs the driver if they are using more fuel than is required. There is an eco-driving indicator included in the instrument panel which relays fuel consumption information helping drivers to make choices about their behaviour behind the wheel.

The system uses data on fuel consumption and transmission efficiency during both acceleration and cruising and makes a calculation about the optimum acceleration rate. The instrument panel relays the information to the driver about the ideal level for fuel-efficient driving. The indicator is green when driving within the suitable range but begins to flash when reaching the fuel consumption threshold before changing to amber.

Nissan estimates that the ECO Pedal could help drivers improve their fuel consumption by between five and 10 per cent. It hopes to make the system available from 2009.

What do you think of this innovation? Is it helpful to drivers or too distracting? Let us know your thoughts.

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