Vauxhall’s upcoming Insignia will be the first car with a system that can ‘read’ speed limit signs and warn the driver.
The optional new technology, combined with a lane departure warning system, will become available from 2009 on the Insignia and is expected to be rolled out on future new Vauxhalls.
Developed by Vauxhall’s parent GM and sister firm Opel, the system is claimed to “reduce stress and can even prevent costly speeding tickets”.
Expected to be known as Vauxhall Eye, the system uses a wide-angle, high-resolution camera in the windscreen and computers to detect road signs and lane markings.
A GM spokesman explained: “The notices are displayed for a few seconds as a symbol in the centre of the instrument panel between the main round dials. In addition, drivers can recall the image any time by pressing a button on the steering wheel. Traffic sign detection can be activated via a sub-page in the car’s onboard computer menu.”
To view a video of the system in action click here.
