In a race to cut fuel consumption, Nissan is resorting to some rather oddball technological novelties. The Japanese automaker says it will equip a number of its upcoming models with an accelerator pedal that pushes back when the driver applies too much gas.

According to The Detroit News, the so-called "ECO Pedal" system will become available next year and will function by detecting "the most efficient rate of acceleration in a vehicle based on how fast fuel is being burned and other factors." Sensing undue pressure, the gas pedal will actually resist the driver's heavy foot, helping improve fuel efficiency by 5 to 10 percent.

Despite good intentions, results this marginal can be achieved through prudent driving habits and do not warrant premium equipment. In fact, restricting throttle can actually compromise driver safety since certain traffic maneuvers, such as freeway merging, may call for rapid acceleration. The ECO Pedal will come with an off switch. Still, a passive warning system, such as a sound alert, dashboard light or a vibrating pedal would seem more sensible as it leaves a driver the option to speed up when necessary.