Faulty Toyotas...

...starring John Creese.

Toyota are fitting a new override system to all of their new cars.

According to BBC News, President Akio Toyoda told reporters in Tokyo that the new system would cut engine power when the accelerator and brakes are applied at the same time.

I think I can see the logic here. If your accelerator pedal is wedged on, then your natural initial reaction would be to use the brake. I'm not sure exactly how the fault fully manifests itself, but if the override actually requires you to put your foot on the accelerator, then this is definitely not going to work in a heading-towards-a-tree-at-40mph situation.

Another problem is that when the engine is switched off, you will lose power-steering and braking capacity as well. Part of the advice currently being given is that switching off the engine will help in a runaway situation but don't take the key out!! - or your steering lock will kick in and much damage will ensue.

I also think any racing or rally drivers might have issues with this solution if every time they use left-foot braking, their cars cut out.

Overall, though, this is obviously a big exercise in reassurance - it probably won't add too much to the cost of manufacture since it will be installed on the production lines. Current owners know that Toyota make good cars and potential future owners will gain a bit of confidence in their purchase.