Report calls for speed limited cars

25 January 2010
A report has said cars used by public sector workers should be fitted with speed limit systems

The Government's sustainable development watchdog has called for all public sector vehicles in Northern Ireland to be fitted with a speed control system which ensures drivers do not break the limit.

A report by the Sustainable Development Commission (SDC) said that the system should be introduced to improve road safety and cut carbon emissions.

The technology has already been looked at by the Department for Transport as a means of reducing the UK's carbon footprint. A report by the Commission for Integrated Transport found that the roll-out of such a system in all cars on the roads could save 25 million tonnes of carbon over a 60-year period.

The SDC report recommended that the technology "should be rolled out to all government, public sector and public transport operators' vehicles" if it proves to be successful.

The potentially controversial technology is linked to the engine and braking system, making adjustments in both to ensure the vehicle stays under the limit. However, the report also called for a voluntary system which would allow the driver to take over and break the speed limit if needed.

Copyright © Press Association 2010