Nissan Concept Car Features Anti Drunk-Driving Technology

Series of sensors detect sobriety of driver and can immobilize car.

Japanese automaker, Nissan Motor Company, has unveiled a concept car designed to reduce drunk driving. The vehicle utilizes several sensors to determine the sobriety or alertness of the driver and then initiates measures in response. The sensors can detect the presence of alcohol, monitor facial features for drowsiness and analyze driving behaviors.

The sensitive alcohol odor sensors have been installed in the gear shift knob as well as the seats. They are able to detect alcohol in the driver’s perspiration and immobilize the vehicle and lock the transmission if the level of alcohol is above a set limit.

The facial monitoring system is comprised of a camera focused on the driver’s eyes. After the system is calibrated, it can detect changes that may indicate drowsiness. When such conditions are detected, voice alerts are issued through the vehicle navigation system. Seat belts are automatically tightened to further alert or awaken the driver.

The vehicle can also determine operational changes, such as drifting out of a lane. When the system suspects drowsiness or distraction, the navigation system again alerts the driver with voice and message alerts and the seat belt is tightened.

The concept car reflects emerging technologies that may be incorporated in future production cars. In fact the drunk driving message alert is already on Nissan navigation systems. The automaker is currently testing an on-board breathalyzer system that could disable the ignition system when alcohol is detected. There are also plans to develop an Intelligent Transport System Project that would analyze data from moving vehicles and road sensors to help reduce accidents.

This is all part of Nissan’s Vision 2015 goal to half the number of traffic deaths or serious injuries involving its cars by 2015.