The era in which the car simply waited for us to unlock the door is history. The American automobile giant General Motors is preparing a real technological revolution that could put an end to driving after a drink or two, before you have even touched the car's handle. Oh my God, it sounds like a scene from a science fiction thriller, but the company's patent application is very real and promises to change the rules of the game.
The concern's engineers have developed an intelligent system of cameras and lidars that monitors every movement of the owner as he approaches the vehicle. Forget about standard checks - here a complex neural network comes into play that analyzes “gait metrics“. Stride length, rhythm, stability and even the slightest wobble or deviation from a straight line are converted into digital data. If the algorithm determines that your coordination is violated and you cross the “sobriety threshold“, the car will simply deny you access.
Software “red card“ scenarios
If the system suspects that you have had too many cocktails or are not feeling well, it will not just remain silent. Several levels of response are provided:
Sharp sound and visual signals to “wake you up“.
Activation of a secondary check via a built-in breathalyzer in the passenger compartment.
Complete ignition blocking, turning a modern Chevrolet or Cadillac into a motionless sculpture.
An interesting detail is that this technology is not only aimed at catching drunk drivers. It could be a lifeline in case of sudden medical problems that the person himself may not suspect. Oppa, But here comes the big “but”. Skeptics are already raising eyebrows about people with permanent disabilities or specific physical features. Will the software be flexible enough not to leave a sober person on the street just because they drive differently?
The battle for safety until 2030
GM's rush is no coincidence. The influential IIHS institute has already announced that by the end of the decade the criteria for the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ award will include mandatory intoxication detection systems. So, whether they want to or not, manufacturers must come up with a way to stop violators in the parking lot.
For now, the technology is in the patent phase, but the direction is clear. The future of security will not be limited to airbags and radars on the road. Your personal car is becoming a strict guardian, watching you closely from the first step. Is this a higher form of Care or over-invasion of personal space? We'll find out, but one thing is certain - the time when we could hide our condition from the machine is running out.