Interpretation ID: nht92-9.59

DATE: 01/06/92

FROM: Joseph B. Gordon -- Manager of Engineering, ESI BRAKE PARTS, DIVISION OF STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS, INC.

TO: Mr. Rich Van Iderstine -- U.S. Department of Transporation, NHTSA

COPYEE: Daniel Carboni, Sr. V.P. (Ignition and Brake Products) David Blasco -- (Product Test Lab)

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED 2-18-93 FROM JOHN WOMACK TO JOSEPH B. GORDON (A40; STD. 108; VSA (a)(2)(A))

TEXT: EIS has been approached as to the possibility of our manufacturing a product which provides an intermittently blinking brake light function. Before we actually consider such a project however, we need to learn if there are any existing prohibitions or problems which would disqualify this device from being introduced to the marketplace.

Intended for use in passenger vehicles, the product under consideration is an addition to the existing rear brake light system which causes the brake lights to flash intermittently when pressure to the brake pedal is applied. While this mechanism would provide an added measure of visibility to alert traffic behind a braking vehicle, our concerns are whether such a device would be confused with hazard warning lights or if there are other problems/restrictions connected with its manufacture.

EIS would very much appreciate any advice or information NHTSA can provide us with on this proposed braking product at your earliest convenience.