Automaker Volvo to add in-car cameras, sensors to monitor distracted, drunk drivers

In an effort to combat drunk and distracted driving, automaker Volvo is planning to use cameras and sensors inside cars to monitor the driver and can even pull over itself when it detects something wrong.

Through this incorporation, Volvo’s vehicles will be able intervene if a driver doesn’t respond to warning signals, can limit their speed, alert the Volvo on Call service – which will then contact the driver and may send additional help if required – and even slow down the car and park.

As per Engadget, the cameras and sensors will watch out for distraction and/or intoxication based on factors including drivers closing their eyes for a long time, looking away from the road for long periods, very slow reaction times, weaving across lanes too much and no steering input over extended periods of time.

Video Courtesy: Volvo

Moreover, also keeping in mind the driver’s privacy concerns with all the cameras and sensors, Volvo said that it ‘wants to start a conversation about whether car makers have the right or maybe even the obligation to install technology in cars that changes their drivers’ behavior’.

“With the cameras, Volvo aims to collect data only in the ambition to make its cars safer and only the data that is required for the systems,” a spokesperson said in an email, reported The Verge. “The cameras will not record video and no data will be gathered without the user’s consent. Exact technical setup is yet to be determined.”

The Swedish automaker intends to begin installing sensors and cameras in all of its cars starting in the early 2020, and will reveal more details in coming time. Also, starting from model year 2021, all of Volvo cars will have a top speed of 112mph in order to stop excessive speeding and reduce traffic fatalities.