Automakers redesign cars for millions of aging drivers in Japan

A file photo of a driver participating in an emergency brake run at a driving school for senior citizens, in Kanuma, Tochigi prefecture. A run of accidents involving older people behind the wheel has upped the pressure from regulators to standardise advanced features. — AFP

Automakers in Japan, where almost 30% of the population is 65 or older, are taking the lead on adapting cars so the nation’s legions of elderly drivers can feel more confident – and be safer – behind the wheel.

A run of accidents involving older people behind the wheel has upped the pressure from regulators to standardise advanced features. Automatic brakes will be required for all new vehicles sold domestically from this year, for example, and companies from Toyota Motor Corp to Nissan Motor Co are employing smart technology to make cars more user friendly for older people.