GPS warns of speed traps

HIGH-TECH software installed in cars will soon warn drivers to take the foot off the pedal because speed cameras are up ahead.

Car makers TVR have developed a system which will not only warn drivers of approaching speed cameras, but also of upcoming accident black spots and schools.

A Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite communicates with the TVR sports car and fixes its location. The software program on board then checks its records for speed cameras in the area and beeps when the car is

approaching one.

TVR is fitting the system to all their Tuscan S models, which cost €80,000 each.

The Blackpool-based company is the first in the world to use the system. “We think it’s a very worthwhile project. It alerts drivers to accident black spots and schools as well as speed cameras,” said TVR marketing manager Ben Samuelson.

“On my way to work, there’s a school but the speed limit is 60mph. It should be under 20mph but at least with the new system, drivers will be warned,” he added.

He denied the technology allows drivers to speed recklessly in camera-free zones. “Drivers are doing that already so I don’t think it makes any difference.” “The system only includes details of British speed cameras so it would be useless to anyone in Ireland,” admitted Mr Samuelson.

TVR has only sold six of its cars here, ranging in price from €57,000 to €80,000.

But even if the GPS database was upgraded to include Irish road information, gardaí say the technology is not permitted here under the 1961 Road Traffic Act. The act prohibits any device which frustrates the operation of speed cameras. Traditional radar detectors cannot legally be used in cars.

“Whoever wrote that legislation was obviously far seeing. It’s been an offence here for donkey’s years,” said garda spokesman Ken Hill.