'Brains' under bonnet to put an end to speeding

Plans to stop motorists speeding by installing an electronic "brain" under the bonnet of every car in Britain came closer today.

Government experts want the device introduced to prevent drivers going too fast at accident blackspots.

Speeding outside hospitals and schools has already been cut following trials by specially adapted cars.

The "brain" enables satellites to remotely apply a car's brakes and reduce power to the engine to ensure compliance with speed limits. Ministers are now looking for experts to compile a powerful digital "map", containing precise details of every speed limit in Britain.

The map will list where each limit begins and ends - and pinpoint the maximum speed in any given area.

Ministers believe it is the "holy grail" that will allow the Government to control millions of motorists - all without the need for speed cameras.

Motoring organisations say it is now inevitable that the limiter and the map will be combined to make speeding a thing of the past. They will be used to ensure mass compliance-with speed limits, from 20mph zones in residential areas to 70mph on motorways. Rebecca Rees of the AA said: "Giving the go-ahead for the digital database is a significant step that brings remote speed control much closer.

"Now that the two crucial technologies required for this are on the way, there is no stopping it."

While ministers insist there is "no firm commitment" to use the database to enforce speed limits, Department for Transport insiders admit it is only a matter of time before the two technologies merge - with far-reaching consequences for Britain's motorists.

A Department of Transport insider said: "An accurate database might allow us to dispense with roadside signs and create variable speed limits to suit local conditions. It would also mean that drivers could automatically be advised of a safe driving speed on approaches to bends or other road hazards."

At present, records of each speed limit around the country are fragmented and mostly paper-based.

The transport department wants experts to transform this to a national database. It is advertising in the Official Journal of the European Communities for "expressions of interest" from major technology companies capable of tackling the project. If ministers are happy with the response they are expected to call for tenders later this year.

Initially the database will be used by satellite-navigation firms. When drivers enter city limits or drive past a school, the data will advise them of speed limits.

It could also warn drivers about hazards such as sharp bends or steep descents. Within years the system is expected to become mandatory. Car manufacturers could be compelled to fit the "brain" to all new cars at a cost of up to £100 each within a decade.

The two technologies could also pave the way for a national roaduser charging system, transport experts say.

Ms Rees said: "This may signal the end of the road for the speed camera - but not yet."