Ford trials geofencing speed limiter

Ford is trialling a technology that automatically reduces the speed of vehicles to comply with speed limits without having to read signs.

Enabling vehicles to “see” and read signs, such as speed limit signs is not new but has stumbled upon some limiting problems. Signs are often hidden behind corners or other obstacles such as bushes and overgrown shrubbery, which renders them invisible to such technology.

Speed limit signs may soon be a thing of the past

Ford’s latest technology relies on geofencing, a virtual geographical boundary, which could one day make speed limit signs redundant. Referred to as Ford’s Geofencing Speed Limit Control, the solution could also make getting speeding tickets a thing of the past.

“Connected vehicle technology has the proven potential to help make everyday driving easier and safer to benefit everyone, not just the person behind the wheel,” said Michael Huynh, manager, City Engagement Germany, Ford of Europe. “Geofencing can ensure speeds are reduced where – and even when – necessary to help improve safety and create a more pleasant environment.”

The trial runs until March 2023 as part of broader research initiatives putting pre-production and prototype Ford E Transit vehicles to the test across a variety of intensive real-world operating scenarios, including in postal, municipal and utilities services, plus last mile and grocery delivery sectors within France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and the UK.

Image: courtesy of Ford UK