Ford Wants To Control Your Speed With Geofencing. No, Really.
Automobiles offer ultimate freedom and mobility. But Ford wants to use geofencing to slow cars down.
In the world of technology, geofencing is one of the more fascinating recent advancements. Advertisers use it to showcase ads based on where you’re at. But geofencing can also be used for safety, or so claims Ford. In a report by ElectricCarsReport, the Blue Oval folks are working with German city officials from Cologne and Aachen to enact the tech.
Michael Huynh is a manager for “City Engagement” for Ford of Europe. He states, “geofencing can ensure speeds are reduced where – and even when – necessary to help improve safety and create a more pleasant environment.” The point is that school zones, construction zones and others can see a reduction in injuries and fatalities through lowering speeds in those specific areas. Have construction on a narrow street? Slow down the cars to keep the construction workers safe. First responders are at an accident? Cars will travel down the road slower.
Currently the tech is equipped on Ford’s electric powered Transit vans. The car receives information from GPS and data exchange. The driver will see a speed zone indicator on the dash and the car will automatically slow down. Ford claims the driver can override the system at any time. Which is good. Otherwise drivers would have their foot mashed to the floor waiting for the speed limiter to be removed. Results from escaping the geofencing area would be impressive for sure.
Ford claims the tech is only there to reduce pedestrian fatalities. But since the tech is already there, there’s nothing keeping that tech from limiting cars on roads like highways. Or shutting cars off completely. Ok, that’s a bit Orwellian. But you see the concern.
If this tech is put on standard road cars, would you buy one? Or will you reluctantly hold on to the freedom of controlling your own speed for yourself? After all, accelerator pedals have been around for over 100 years and have so far done a decent job of controlling speed.
Photos: Electric Cars Report
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