Alcohol Locks

New technology in the form of an “alcohol lock” (better known as an Alcolock) is being tested on mainland Britain according to BBC Newsline today. Operating in the same way as a keypad immobiliser, the device, which basically comes in the form of an on board breathalyser, may be an effective way of combating drink driving according to anti drink driving pressure groups.

The product is the result of a European feasibility study which shows that there are sufficient reasons to conduct trials with alcohol locks in the EU. Various European countries have shown interest in such a pilot study in recent years and the technology has already been introduced further afield in Canada, the USA and Australia. Motor manufacturers Saab are keen to introduce the “accessory” in their models worldwide.

When you blow into the device the vehicle will be immobilised if the driver has exceeded the legal limit. The all clear is needed to start the vehicle. Some might add that there is nothing to stop another person starting the car for the offender but with drink driving socially unacceptable this seems unlikely. 

Regards “Drunk In Charge” laws we can only assume that these may be reviewed for those who get into their car to give a sample. (The device shown on the BBC was static and fitted to the console). Or perhaps the device be fitted to a key fob like that pioneered by Saab which gives prior warning to you being over the drink drive limit (below)

Last year 15 per cent of deaths on Britain’s roads involved drivers who were over the legal limit. And in Europe, EU figures show that the death of 25 per cent of all drivers in road accidents could be attributed to drunk driving. Pressure groups believe that the device may even see a review of sentencing where the technology could be handed out by the courts to ensure offenders were sober whilst taking to the wheel again

Above - the breakthrough device by Saab - which If the green light is shown will transmit an ‘all clear’ signal to the car’s electronic control unit. This is in addition to the usual signal the key always transmits to switch off the engine immobiliser. But if a red light is shown, the ‘all clear’ signal will not be sent and the engine will remain immobilised. The software instructing the engine immobiliser can be adjusted according to the alcohol limits in operation where the car is registered and will operate away from the vehicle to avoid the driver getting in the seat. It is not clear if the brakes remain applied which could see a major review of the Drunk in Charge Laws

Issued 4 August 04