Ford Motor Company has announced that they will be launching new technology which could help stop drivers from exceeding speed limits.

For years, some cars have had technology where people can set a maximum speed for their vehicles. What Ford will be showing off is new technology through their all-new S-MAX which can “help ensure the maximum speed is automatically adjusted to remain within changing speed limits.” This technology is called “Intelligent Speed Limiter”.

Activation of “Intelligent Speed Limiter” will be via steering wheel controls. Cameras on the windscreen pick up the information on road signs by using the existing “Traffic Sign Recognition” systems. When the speed limit is lower than the speed that the car is travelling, the system slows down the vehicle. When the speed limit rises, drivers can pick up speed but the car won’t allow them to drive faster than the limit on that particular road. This system is effective at speeds of between 30 and 200 km/h. We’re told that the slowing down of the vehicle will be smooth and will occur on account of the fuel supply to the engine being restricted.

Stefan Kappes, active safety supervisor, Ford of Europe, said "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. Intelligent Speed Limiter can remove one of the stresses of driving, helping ensure customers remain within the legal speed limit."