Technology

New Cars May Require Speed Reduction Tech; But Are US Drivers Prepared for the Change?

On a Saturday afternoon in January 2022, a devastating incident occurred in Las Vegas. A 2018 Dodge Challenger, driven by an impaired individual with cocaine and PCP in their system, sped through a stop sign at an alarming speed of 103 miles per hour. The vehicle then crashed into a Toyota Sienna minivan, which was carrying seven occupants, resulting in the deaths of four people, including the driver and passenger of the Dodge and all passengers in the minivan.

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The Role of Intelligent Speed-Assist Technology

In its investigation of this tragic incident, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that intelligent speed-assist technology (ISA) could have mitigated the scale of this tragedy. The NTSB concluded that ISA should be standard equipment in all new vehicles to prevent needless deaths. This technology can help prevent accidents caused by speeding and impairment.

How Intelligent Speed-Assist Technology Works

ISA technology relies on a car’s GPS location and matches it with a database of posted speed limits and onboard cameras to determine the legal speed limit. Passive ISA systems warn drivers when they exceed the speed limit through sound, visuals, or haptic alerts, leaving the driver responsible for slowing down the vehicle. Active ISA systems can even limit a vehicle’s speed above a posted speed limit.

The European Approach

In Europe, ISA technology is already mandatory for all new vehicles as of 2022. The European Commission’s Vehicle General Safety Regulation (GSR) requires vehicles to be equipped with ISA systems that ensure compliance with speed limits. This regulation aims to reduce the number of accidents caused by speeding and impairment.

The Benefits of Intelligent Speed-Assist Technology

ISA technology offers several benefits, including:

Reduced accidents caused by speeding and impairment
Improved road safety
Enhanced vehicle security features
Compliance with European regulations

Challenges and Opportunities for Adoption

While ISA technology is not yet widely adopted in the United States, there are opportunities for its implementation. For example, lawmakers have introduced legislation around driver monitoring systems that can detect when a driver is tired, distracted, or under the influence.

The Importance of Collaboration between Governments and Industry

The adoption of ISA technology requires collaboration between governments and industry stakeholders. The NTSB has recommended that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) research and develop guidelines to help states implement pilot programs for ISA technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, intelligent speed-assist technology is a crucial innovation in vehicle safety. Its adoption can prevent accidents caused by speeding and impairment, ensuring safer roads for all users. As governments and industry stakeholders continue to work together, we can expect to see increased implementation of ISA technology in vehicles worldwide.