Congress Mandates New Cars Need Anti-Drunk Driving Tech

New cars will have a plethora of required new features. From rear-seat reminders to lane-assist, automakers are adding safety features left and right. The latest measure is aimed at preventing intoxicated drivers from getting behind the wheel.

House Bill H.R.3684 is hoping automakers will come up with a system that can “passively monitor the performance of a driver of a motor vehicle to accurately identify whether that driver may be impaired; and… prevent or limit motor vehicle operation if an impairment is detected.” 

Essentially lawmakers want automakers to figure out how to detect if a driver has a BAC above the legal limit. Then, restrict the operation of the vehicle if so.

There’s not currently a solution set in stone however some ideas that have been discussed range from infrared cameras to breathalyzers. Naturally, as with any law, there is room for interpretation on which solution will be legal, most cost effective, efficient, etc.

Congress wants the technology in new vehicles by 2026.