Volkswagen Pedestrian Monitoring uses radar technology to scan the area in front of the vehicle for pedestrians. The radar sensors scan up to 400 feet ahead of the vehicle and within a 35-degree radius. When the sensors detect a pedestrian in the vehicle's path, the system will either apply the brakes automatically or send alerts to the driver to prompt them to assess the situation and act if necessary. This type of technology is especially helpful in foggy or bright sunny conditions when your visibility is impaired.

The Pedestrian Monitoring system works at speeds of less than 40mph. Between 4 and 18.6 mph, the system will apply the brakes to avoid colliding with the pedestrian. Between 18.6 and 40 mph, audible and visual alerts will occur, giving the driver time to respond appropriately by applying the brakes. If the driver does not respond, the system will apply automatic braking on behalf of the driver.

It's important to remember that the system may not function if the radar sensor is blocked by snow, ice, or dirt, so make sure you keep the sensors clear to maximize usage of this technology.

Volkswagen Pedestrian Monitoring is standard on the Arteon, Atlas, Golf, Golf R, and Golf Alltrack. It is available on certain other Volkswagen models, excluding the Beetle, Jetta, and Passat. Volkswagen plans to make this technology a standard feature on almost all models by 2022. See this technology in action on a new Volkswagen Atlas from Gossett Volkswagen in Memphis, Tennessee.