Volvo Plans Cameras to Monitor Bad Drivers

Volvo Car Corp. plans a system that monitors the driver for signs of intoxicated or distracted behavior and slows or stops the vehicle if necessary to prevent a crash.

Due a few years from now, the feature will use a camera and other sensors to detect vehicle weaving, a lack of steering input and whether the driver’s eyes are closed or not watching the road.

The system could sound an alarm, alert Volvo’s call-in service and even automatically slow or park the vehicle if the driver fails to respond, according to the company.

The technology joins other planned Volvo safety features. Earlier this month the carmaker said it will begin limiting the top speed of its new cars to 180 kph (112 mph) beginning with the 2021 model year.

Yesterday the company also introduced technology dubbed Care Key that will enable Volvo owners to pre-limit the top speed of their vehicle before lending it to others. The feature will debut with the company’s 2021 models.