New ISA speed limiter technology launching next week blasted ‘dangerous’ by motorist
Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) tools are already installed on a range of models across the UK with road users highlighting safety worries.
New Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) technology set to hit roads next month has been described as “dangerous” by a concerned motorist.
From July 7, all vehicles sold in Europe will have to be fitted with ISA speed limiter technology under a new driving law change introduced by the European Union.
Although the UK has left the EU, manufacturers are likely to install the technology on their vehicles anyway with many brands already fitting tools in a range of models.
Citroën, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo are just a few of the top brands with ISA tools already in their vehicles.
The technology uses GPS data and sign-recognition cameras to determine local speed limits on a particular route.
The vehicle is then designed to issue an audio or visual warning if motorists are thought to be over the speed limit at any given time.
However, some models are also fitted with an “adaptive pedal response” which automatically slows a car down when it hits a certain speed.
The new technology has been blasted by a concerned road user who stressed the pedal system was “dangerous” for ordinary motorists.
YouTube account @JamCamUK said: “Default sound alerts can be replaced with adaptive pedal response.
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“This adaptive pedal response. I've tried that one out but I don't recommend it.
“It essentially sets a speed limiter so you're driving along, the speed limit’s 30mph and that's it. The car will not exceed 30mph unless you absolutely bury the accelerator.
“Then you have a delay of a few seconds and then the car will just go flying down the road. Frankly, it's a little bit dangerous.”
ISA technology can be deactivated in seconds through most vehicles' infotainment systems. The button is usually found under the settings tab and can be turned off at the simple click of a button.
However, the tool is designed to be reactivated every time the vehicle is restarted meaning those who don’t like the tool have to constantly switch it off.
Peter Golding, managing director at FleetCheck, has previously warned there is likely to be “some pushback” from motorists over the new technology.
However, he stressed the tool offers the chance to deliver a “zero tolerance” approach to motoring with company car owners potentially told they cannot turn off the feature.
He added: “These systems can be overridden but the driver has to make a conscious effort to do so, and fleets should make it clear that will not be tolerated.
“While this technology is not perfect, it will provide valuable guidance to drivers on the road in real-time. They will almost always know when they are exceeding the speed limit.”
