Major rule change for Irish drivers as new cars to be fitted with special tech

IRISH drivers are set for a major change as a European Union rule will now see all new cars fitted with speed limiters.

Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) systems is now a legal requirement for all motors in Ireland and the EU as rule came in to effect on July 7.

And the AI technology could slow the motors down if they break the speeding limit.

A speed limiter is a safety device that’s fitted in cars to prevent them from breaking the speed limit of roads.

ISA uses GPS data, AI and even onboard cameras to assess your speed in real time as you are driving.

And the technology will intervene if you go above the speed limit on the road you’re using that it has worked out for safety measures.

ISA in new motors can now assess road markings and your location to see if you are following the speed limit.

For example, the system will know if you are going 40 mph in a 30 mph zone, and could automatically slow you down.

The rule was passed two years but now comes in to effect in all new cars past July 7, and motor companies have three types of systems they could install.

First of all, informative ISAs could be in some motors which results in a warning message and alerts the driver they are breaking the speed limit.

One level up from this is the supportive ISA which works by increasing the upward force on the accelerator pedal to make it harder for the driver to speed up.

Finally, intervening ISAs are the most active, with the system actually slows the vehicle down until it goes back under the limit regardless if the driver wants it or not.

Officials have said that for safety, this would be achieved by temporarily shutting off part of the engine and will not result in a sudden application of the breaks.

These three proposed technology systems offer different types of intervention, and motor companies can decide which one to use.

The rule is now enforced for all new cars in EU member states and the European Transport Safety Authority said it aims to reduce road accidents by 30 per cent and injuries by 20 per cent.

DRIVING LICENCE CHANGE

Meanwhile, the Road Safety Authority has revealed new updates for motorists applying for a new permit or licence.

Drivers can now apply for, renew or replace a new licence or permit online.

On top of that, drivers can now add a new category to their permit or licence and they can exchange a foreign licence for an Irish licence.

It can all be done through the National Driver License Service (NDLS) Portal online.

The RSA has revealed a checklist for all those wanting to use the new online portal.

To apply for your first learner permit, drivers must have a verified MyGovID account and a completed eyesight report to show your vision is up to driving standards.

Drivers must also give proof of address dated within six months and pay a fee of €35 online.

Proof of your address is only needed if your current address doesn’t match with what’s currently on your Public Service Card.

To apply for your first driving licence through the portal, drivers must also have a verified MyGovID account and give proof of address.