Drivers can 'switch off' new 'mandatory' speed limiter set to hit roads in days

Drivers will soon have the option to disable the new Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) speed limiter devices that are set to be installed in new cars, although the technology will reactivate every time the car is started. Industry insiders have disclosed that while the system can be "temporarily overridden", it cannot be permanently switched off, allowing drivers to adjust settings before each trip.

This development emerges as new ISA speed limit regulations are about to come into force shortly. Starting from July 7, 2024, all new vehicles sold in Europe will be required to be equipped with ISA technologyy due to updates in driving legislation.

Cars currently on sale but not yet registered must also be fitted with speed limiters according to the terms of the new policy, reports the Express. XLCR Vehicle Management clarified: "While drivers can switch off the speed limiter, it reactivates each time the car is started."

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They warned: "Removing the limiter for higher speeds or better fuel economy can be dangerous and illegal." Despite Brexit, it is anticipated that many car manufacturers will continue to include this technology in vehicles sold in the UK.

The leasing experts highlighted that numerous leading car brands already incorporate ISA technology in their models. They elaborated: "The ISA system uses GPS and traffic-sign recognition cameras to detect speed limits and adjust the vehicle's speed accordingly."

"The system provides haptic, audio, and visual warnings if the speed limit is exceeded and can be temporarily overridden by pressing hard on the accelerator. However, it reactivates with each new start. Many manufacturers, including Citroen, Ford, and Volvo, are already including ISAs in their cars."

In most vehicles, ISA technology is primarily an audio warning beep that goes off when drivers go beyond the set limits. Evidently, Intelligent Speed Assist technology can only be found in recently produced cars, and typically, the button to switch off this tool can be located via the infotainment screen.

To locate this feature, you'd need to press into settings and navigate to a tab labelled 'Driving Assistance'. This should bring up options for configuring the ISA tool. Switching off this mode will obstruct any audible alerts from sounding when drivers exceed the endorsed limits.