Boston, MA - 10 September 2007 - The Strategy Analytics Automotive Electronics service has released the report, "Has the Electric Parking Brake Stalled?" after the preview of the Hyundai Genesis concept car at the New York Auto Show.

This is one of the first Asian cars fitted with the electric parking brake (EPB), the system that replaces the manually cranked lever, and a sign that EPB will grow beyond its European heartland.

EPB players in the market, such as Continental and Siemens VDO, have listened to the demands of car makers in order to make EPB more affordable and enable installation in lower segment models. Despite a hesitant debut, EPB demand is expected to accelerate beyond 10 million units per year in 2014 as car makers realize potential cost savings in system integration, requiring fewer components, as well as maintaining high standards of comfort and improved cabin design.

Vendors are also hoping that EPB will also be recognized as a safety feature. The US Congress is discussing the need for mandatory EPB installment in all vehicles as a way to avoid roll-away accidents.

The author of this Insight, Kevin Mak, Industry Analyst with the Automotive Electronics Service, says, "Until now EPB has been a feature in high-end segment car models, where convenience was the driver behind its deployment. EPB vendors have been addressing cost and some reliability issues with the latest developments, increasing the system's appeal for broader segment installation."

EPB eliminates the traditional handbrake level from the vehicle interior. "With interior styling and ergonomics being key vehicle brand differentiators, the extra interior design flexibility afforded by EPB will capture the imagination of more OEMs." said Chris Webber, VP of the Strategy Analytics Global Automotive Practice.