Renault Laguna

It also makes the accelerator harder to press and, if the cars get closer still, the throttle vibrates until the driver backs off. In addition, the Laguna has a brake-by-wire system that applies the anchors as soon as your foot is lifted from the throttle, dramatically reducing stopping distances. This also enables drivers to adjust the sensitivity, feel and biting point of the brake pedal for optimum comfort.

While Renault is remaining tight-lipped about when these safety devices will appear on production models, insiders say they could be available within two years.