Toyota Developing Anti-Drunk Driving Gadget

[Appaholic]

TOKYO (AFP) – Toyota Motor said Monday it was developing anti-drunk driving equipment that would lock the ignition of a vehicle if high levels of alcohol are detected in the driver.

The system features a hand-held breathalyser, equipped with a digital camera, that detects alcohol consumption and photographs the driver's face for identification, a company statement said.

If the driver tests positive, the system either warns him or her, or locks the vehicle's ignition depending on the level of alcohol detected, Toyota said.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090831/ts ... panytoyota

I'll never buy a Toyota.....what BS...if it's successful, watch for it in American vehicles within 5 yrs.... ....

[Ursus A. Horribilis]

If it's optional and you get to choose to have it then fine. If you're gonna be charged for the contraption and it comes with the vehicle no matter what then this will just be another thing that will be mandatory in the future for our own protection.

[Appaholic]

If it's optional and you get to choose to have it then fine. If you're gonna be charged for the contraption and it comes with the vehicle no matter what then this will just be another thing that will be mandatory in the future for our own protection.

Yep.....which do you think it will be? This will be mandatory, but hands-free cell will be an option....

[UNI88]

If it's optional and you get to choose to have it then fine. If you're gonna be charged for the contraption and it comes with the vehicle no matter what then this will just be another thing that will be mandatory in the future for our own protection.

As a parent, I wouldn't mind having this option. I could make sure my kids weren't able to act as stupidly when they're driving as I did.

What if it is optional but your insurance company either 1) gives a discount for having it or 2) requires it in order to keep your insurance with that company?

This is just the start, insurance companies will eventually require devices that monitor your speed and other driving habits and your actual habits will impact the rates that you pay.