Ford is to implement an on-board system in its new car that will prevent drivers from exceeding a road’s speed limit. The Intelligent Speed Limiter, to be included with the new Ford S-Max, launching in Europe this Summer, uses a windshield-mounted camera to detect road signs. When the vehicle enters, say, a 30mph zone, the limiter will ensure that the vehicle cannot exceed this speed, applying automated braking, if necessary, and then restricting the amount of fuel supplied to the engine.
Ford claims that the system will help reduce road traffic accidents and speeding tickets. That reasoning certainly makes sense, and drivers who don’t want their speed controlled either won’t buy an S-Max or will disable the function, but the implementation of the technology sets a worrying precedent, especially if regulators decide it should be adopted by all vehicles compulsorily.
Source: Engadget
