Abstract: A panel assembly (10) for an automotive vehicle has a transparent panel (12) having opposing first (14) and second (16) surfaces. A portion of the first surface includes refractive structure (18) integral with the panel (12). At least one light source (22) is positioned at an edge of the panel for introducing light into the panel (12). The refractive structure (18) reflects light from the light source (22) out through a portion of the second surface (16). A film laminate (20) is positioned generally opposite the refractive structure (18). When the light source (22) is operatively connected to a vehicle braking system and the film laminate (20) is red, the panel assembly (10) will indicate a braking condition.

Abstract: An accelerator pedal assembly has a mounting bracket and a pedal arm mounted to the bracket for pivotal movement between an idle position and a full throttle position. A biasing mechanism extends between the pedal arm and the bracket for urging the pedal arm to the idle position. A friction disc engages the biasing mechanism for movement therewith. The friction disc is in frictional engagement with a stationary friction plate for relative movement therebetween. Movement of the pedal arm from the idle position towards the full throttle position responsively rotates the friction disc relative to the friction plate and the biasing mechanism responsively increases frictional engagement between the friction disc and the friction plate by urging the friction disc and friction plate together.