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Toyota unveils automatic ignition lock breathalyzer
Toyota has joined forces with Hino Motors to introduce a new tool to help prevent drunk driving. The new hand-held breathalyzer will check the driver's breath and if the alcohol level reaches a certain point the car automatically locks the ignition, preventing the user from driving the vehicle and potentially saving lives.
In the case of commercial vehicles such as trucks, the device also features a digital camera that can photograph the user's face send the information to a truck dispatcher. The first in-the-field road test began last week and are scheduled to last until November, after which we'll all get to find out it this device represents the future of drunk driving prevention globally.
Via Toyota
By MaybeI'mstupid at 12:33 AM ON 09/08/09
Maybe I am just stupid but, is this supposed to be some awesome innovation? I like the digital camera that can photograph the user's face but really? This kind of device hasn't prevented drunk driving since it was invented. Let me just get my sober kid. friend, some person off the street to do it for me, that is unless its built in - tamper proof - and can detect any alcohol level within the vehicle then yeah this sounds great. Also, locks the ignition? Isn't that dangerous, mind you not 100% of the time as with drunk driving but you never know when your stone cold drunk and you need to get somewhere pronto ( like away from the police )
By Brass Orchid at 2:46 AM ON 09/08/09
Skynet will like this one. Getting the humans to outlaw human stupidity and eliminate it will make the AI takeover much easier. Eventually, we will need automated systems to enforce the laws against human stupidity because all humans will be criminals when the proper laws are in place.
By Realist at 10:20 AM ON 09/08/09
A steering wheel that tested the sewat on a drivers hands would be a tad bit more logical. No continual skin contact, no power. Might help to keep moronic drivers from doing other things while driving.
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Realist:
A steering wheel that tested the sewat on a drivers hands would be a tad bit more logical. No continual skin conta...More »