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28/05/2003
Speed limiting scheme gets under way
New research trials looking at how drivers behave when their speed is controlled will begin in Leeds next week.
The trials will examine how people's driving changes when they drive specially modified vehicles which detect and keep the vehicle within the speed limit for the road they are on.
Global positioning technology will tell the car where it is and what the speed limit is. Each time the limit changes the driver is notified of the change, and the new limit is set. The car will alert the driver when it reaches the limit by vibrating the accelerator pedal, the car will then stay at that speed unless the driver opts out of the system, brakes or stops accelerating.
The driver can opt in or out of the system at any time by using buttons on the steering wheel and can override it at any time. The system can also be disabled at the touch of a button in an emergency.
Road safety Minister David Jamieson said: "We're not planning to make the use of speed limiting technology mandatory, but we're keen to see what we can learn from this trial. We know that speed kills and I look forward to seeing what findings this brings."
Twenty cars have been equipped with the system and each will have a volunteer driver for six months. There will be four sets of trials, involving a total of 80 drivers. An earlier research project suggested that fatal accidents could be cut by 19% if vehicles used this kind of intelligent speed limiter.
The research is being carried out by the University of Leeds and MIRA (formerly the Motor Industry Research Association).
(GMcG)
The trials will examine how people's driving changes when they drive specially modified vehicles which detect and keep the vehicle within the speed limit for the road they are on.
Global positioning technology will tell the car where it is and what the speed limit is. Each time the limit changes the driver is notified of the change, and the new limit is set. The car will alert the driver when it reaches the limit by vibrating the accelerator pedal, the car will then stay at that speed unless the driver opts out of the system, brakes or stops accelerating.
The driver can opt in or out of the system at any time by using buttons on the steering wheel and can override it at any time. The system can also be disabled at the touch of a button in an emergency.
Road safety Minister David Jamieson said: "We're not planning to make the use of speed limiting technology mandatory, but we're keen to see what we can learn from this trial. We know that speed kills and I look forward to seeing what findings this brings."
Twenty cars have been equipped with the system and each will have a volunteer driver for six months. There will be four sets of trials, involving a total of 80 drivers. An earlier research project suggested that fatal accidents could be cut by 19% if vehicles used this kind of intelligent speed limiter.
The research is being carried out by the University of Leeds and MIRA (formerly the Motor Industry Research Association).
(GMcG)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
