In order to increase the safety measures, all vehicles in the EU will be fitted with Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA). ISA will identify the speed limit in the certain location via GPS and camera that recognises road signs, then the system will automatically restrict the vehicle from breaking the limit. The European Transport Safety Council states that this technology is likely to reduce collisions by 30%, and save thousands of lives.
11th February 2021
Speed limiters mandatory from 2022
Mandatory speed limiters will be fitted to new cars from 2022. That was confirmed by the Department for Transport, after new rules have been approved by the European Commission. Although, the UK is no longer part of the EU, this ruling will be followed.
Safety technologies can reduce the number of accidents and help drivers to gain more control during dangerous situations on the road. In other words, safety features enable the driver to avoid or reduce the likelihood of accident pre-impact.
The ISA technology is not design to interfere with the breaks, instead it limits the engine power in order to prevent the driver to exceed the speed limit. This being said, the reduction of the speed will be progressive and implemented smoothly. Furthermore, the system is going to be overridable, however if the vehicle continues to accelerate over the limit, a warning will sound and be displayed for a few seconds. For example, if a vehicle is overtaking a tractor on the road, the driver will still be able to accelerate and finish the manoeuvre.
The ISA will be automatically activated every time when the engine starts, but the driver can cancel it at any time.
As of 1st January 2021, the UK is no longer a member of the European Union (EU), however the UK’s Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) has announced that the EU speed limiters rules are likely to apply in the UK as well. To find out more information about Speed limits in the UK, click here
Although some of the rules are likely to remind the same even after the EU-Exit, there are new requirements for driving in Europe. Read our guide to find the changes that can affect you: EU Exit: Driving in Europe in 2021
This new system is not designed to force drivers to slow down, but it aims to promote safety and encourage people to not exceed the limits. It is further discussed that such safety technologies can contribute to fuel efficiency, reduction of CO2 emissions and help drivers to avoid speeding fines. In addition, the Association of British Insurers have suggested that the cost of premium insurance is likely to be reduced, as speed limiters could decrease accident rates.
Please remember, it is a speed limit, not a target. Stay safe on the road.