PEDAL ASSEMBLY WITH PYROTECHNIC RELEASE

A pedal assembly actuates a rigid actuator of a functional system in a motor vehicle. The assembly comprises a mounting bracket having spaced apart support members defining a pedal receiving space. A pedal arm has a pedal pad and an actuator connector. A pair of retainer brackets are normally in a retaining position secured against front-rear movement. At least one pivot pin pivotally connects the proximal end of the pedal arm to the retainer brackets. A pyrotechnic actuator has an input for receiving an actuating signal and when triggered enables deformation of the retainer bracket to a releasing position wherein the retainer brackets permit the at least one pivot pin and the proximal end of the pedal arm to move rearwardly with respect to the mounting bracket. The pyrotechnic actuator may also be arranged with respect to a releasable connector to drive it for disconnection from the retainer brackets to permit the retainer brackets, the at least one pivot pin and the proximal end of the pedal arm to move rearwardly.