We’ve all seen movie scenes where futuristic vehicles have all kinds of incredible features. Whether the futuristic car can fly, transform or drive itself, there’s never been any limit to some of these fictional machines could do. But did you know that electronic speed limit enforcement could become a reality in the near future?
Cars have always been the kind of “social measuring stick” when it comes to how far technology has advanced, for whatever reason. The age-old adage that cars still don’t fly applies on many different levels. Self-driving cars are now a reality, and technology is changing the way we buy, own, and drive cars.
One “feature” we have yet to see is an automated electronic speed limit enforcement on your vehicle. According to many experts however, the day when your car stops you from speeding could be right around the corner.
How could my car stop me from speeding?
In reality, the technology to enforce an electronic speed limit has existed for many years. Ford in 2008 launched a pilot program geared towards helping parents curb reckless behavior. This technology is known as the MyKey system, and it laid down the groundwork for many automakers to follow for the subsequent years to come.
This tech used Ford’s Intelligent Speed Limiter which can enforce an electronic speed limit outside of driver input. Combined with GPS and on-car systems, there is no limit to the data being collected at any time. This system scanned street signs as well as GPS location to automatically restrict a vehicle to the legal speed.
There are many reports about other manufacturers quickly following suit to put such guidelines in place. This brings about questions about big brother, and just how deep their control really extends into the car you drive.
The mere fact that most modern vehicles come equipped with an electronic throttle should not be forgotten. The capability of true electronic speed limit enforcement is something that should not be forgotten.
Even if the reality of an enforced electronic speed limit does not come about in the near future, it’s an alarming situation. Your car in reality is a rolling piece of datalogging equipment, and as such could be used to limit, control or even report incidents of excessive speed.
What do you think about electronic speed limit enforcement? Leave us a message below and let us know!
