Ford Europe has debuted groundbreaking new additions to its MyKey technology aimed at helping young drivers stay focused on the job - mobile phone operations are disabled, vehicle speed is limited and audio volume is limited.
Called ‘Do Not Disturb’, the feature blocks incoming phone calls or text messages, diverting calls to voicemail and saving text messages for later viewing.
In addition, the vehicle’s top speed can be limited to 100km/h, audio volumes set and even the low fuel warning light can be programmed to operate earlier, ensuring young drivers are not stranded by the side of the road out of fuel.
Research by Ford Europe mirrors that carried out in Australia which indicates drivers under the age of 25 are up to three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than more experienced drivers.
“MyKey can give parents peace of mind when they hand car keys over to their kids, and ‘Do Not Disturb’ enables parents to control another risk factor when their child gets behind the wheel, ” explained Peter Patzelt, Ford’s engineer responsible for MyKey.
Ford Europe is also developing an airbag-like inflatable seatbelt for rear seat passengers. This is the latest trend in passenger safety and is already available in Australia - albeit in very limited numbers and obviously in the front - in the Lexus LFA supercar.
