From July 7, 2024, all new cars sold in the UK will be required to have speed limiters installed, a move aimed at reducing road accidents and enhancing road safety. This new regulation, which was originally introduced by the European Union in 2022, will apply to all new cars, including those already manufactured and awaiting sale, which will need to be retrofitted with the technology before they can be sold legally.
A speed limiter is a device that prevents a vehicle from exceeding a pre-set speed. Unlike cruise control, which maintains a constant speed, a speed limiter allows the driver to accelerate and decelerate normally but restricts the vehicle from surpassing the set speed limit. The system uses GPS data and traffic sign recognition cameras to determine the speed limit of the area and limits the engine's power to ensure the vehicle does not exceed that limit.
The speed limiters will provide haptic, audio, and visual warnings if the driver approaches or exceeds the speed limit. Drivers can override the system by pressing hard on the accelerator, but the ISA will reactivate each time the car is started. The system will also be able to reduce engine power if the driver continues to drive above the speed limit for several seconds.
The introduction of mandatory speed limiters is expected to significantly reduce road accidents. The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) predicts that the technology could cut collisions by 30% and save 25,000 lives within 15 years of being introduced. In the UK, adherence to speed limits is crucial, with national limits set at 70 mph on motorways and 30 mph in built-up areas. In 2022, road collisions resulted in 1,711 fatalities and 29,742 serious injuries.
In addition to speed limiters, the new EU regulations also mandate other safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, data loggers (black boxes), emergency stop signals, driver fatigue detection systems, lane-keeping assist, built-in breathalysers, and reversing sensors or cameras. Many of these technologies are already standard in cars sold in the UK.
While the introduction of speed limiters aims to enhance road safety, there are concerns regarding their effectiveness and potential annoyance. Drivers have reported issues such as false speed readings and incorrect speed adjustments due to GPS errors or obscured traffic signs. Additionally, the various warning signals designed to alert drivers when speeding can be irritating.
It's important to remember that the Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) system, including speed limiters, is designed to be an aid for drivers, not a replacement for their judgement and responsibility. Motorists must still pay full attention to the road, exercise caution, and adjust their speed according to the driving conditions.
The ISA system is intended to help deter dangerous driving behaviours, like excessive speeding, which often result from distractions or inattentiveness. By assisting drivers in staying within speed limits, the technology may encourage safer driving habits and potentially reduce the number of traffic violations.
While there may be a learning curve as drivers adapt to the new technology, it's crucial for motorists to understand the benefits that ISA systems can bring. As with any new technology, education and awareness campaigns will play a vital role in ensuring that drivers are well-informed and prepared for the changes. This will help create a smoother transition and maximize the potential safety advantages that ISA systems can offer.
In addition to the ISA system, other safety features mandated by the EU regulations are equally significant. For instance, the inclusion of autonomous emergency braking can greatly reduce rear-end collisions, providing an invaluable safety net. Data loggers (black boxes) can help reconstruct accidents, facilitating investigations and ensuring accountability.
Moreover, emergency stop signals, driver fatigue detection systems, lane-keeping assist, built-in breathalysers, and reversing sensors or cameras all contribute to a comprehensive approach to road safety. By combining these technologies, cars will become safer, and roads will become more secure for all users.
Ultimately, the introduction of mandatory speed limiters and other safety features serves as a testament to the continuous evolution of vehicle safety. Incorporating such technologies into cars can lead to a future where road accidents are significantly reduced, and safer transportation becomes a reality for everyone. As drivers, it's essential to embrace these changes and recognize the potential they have in transforming our roads and strengthening the bond between humans and automotive technology.
