Ford has announced an Intelligent Speed Limiter, which will automatically slow down vehicles driving faster than the posted speed limit.
The auto giant will use the windshield-mounted camera, already installed in some models, to read roadside traffic signs and will restrict the maximum speed of the car accordingly.
As the speed limit increases, the system will allow users to accelerate again, as long as they don’t break the new limit.
Drivers will also be able to preset their own maximum speed to ensure they don’t inadvertently break the rules of the road by limiting the amount of fuel that reaches the engine, rather than by applying the breaks.
Ford says the system can be overridden when drivers firmly press the pedal to the floor, allowing them to avoid a collision or overtake other road users.
The tech will become available to European owners of the second generation S-Max people carrier from August, while the firm is also looking to extend the scheme to other models and territories around the world.
Ford says the technology is aimed as assisting drivers who unintentionally break the speed limit, helping them to avoid speeding tickets, bans and accidents.
“Drivers are not always conscious of speeding and sometimes only becoming aware they were going too fast when they receive a fine in the mail or are pulled over by law enforcement,” said Stefan Kappes, active safety supervisor, Ford of Europe (via BBC).
“Intelligent Speed Limiter can remove one of the stresses of driving, helping ensure customers remain within the legal speed limit.”
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Ford continues to be one of the more innovative automotive companies when it comes to integrating new tech within its vehicles.
The Ford SYNC platform does a better job than most when integrating the user’s smartphone, while the company's Pedestrian Detection System is is also adept at helping drivers avoid accidents.
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