Ford has filed a new patent for technology that could allow cars to automatically report speeders. This high-tech system uses cameras and sensors to spot when a vehicle is speeding, capture images, and send this information to the authorities or nearby police vehicles. While Ford says this technology is intended for police cars, not regular vehicles, it’s stirring up concerns about increased surveillance and privacy. Imagine your car not just driving you around, but also keeping an eye on your speed and potentially reporting you for violations!
Ford recently filed a patent for a new system that might make speeding tickets even more unavoidable. This system could let Ford cars automatically catch and report speeders.
The patent, filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), describes a system that uses cameras and sensors in Ford vehicles to detect when someone is speeding. The technology could then capture images of the speeding car and send this information to nearby police vehicles or a central database.
The patent outlines how the system could collect details like the car’s speed, location, and video footage. This data would then be used by authorities to decide if they need to chase the vehicle or take other action.
But don’t worry too much—Ford has clarified that this system is designed specifically for police cars, not for regular passenger vehicles or self-driving taxis. According to Ford, the technology is meant to help law enforcement with existing tools, not to spy on ordinary drivers.
With today’s technology, it’s already hard to speed, run red lights, or even make small mistakes without getting caught. Advanced traffic cameras can now catch drivers using their phones, not wearing seatbelts, and other infractions.
While this new patent might never become a reality, it does add to the growing concern about how much surveillance is happening on our roads. Many drivers are already uneasy about how much data their cars share with insurance companies and how technology is monitoring every move they make.
In Europe, new cars must now come with Intelligent Speed Assist, which either slows the car automatically or nags the driver until they slow down. Soon, cars might be so annoying with their warnings that Ford’s surveillance system might seem unnecessary.
Update August 6, 2024: Ford has confirmed that this patent is meant for law enforcement vehicles only, not for everyday cars. The company emphasized that the technology will enhance current police systems and does not involve sharing personal driving data from customers’ vehicles. Patents are often just protective measures for new ideas and don’t always reflect future products or business plans.
