Ford Motors is stepping into controversial territory with its latest patent. The car giant has developed a system that could turn its vehicles into mobile speed traps, able to report other drivers for speeding.
This new technology, which Ford calls “Systems and Methods for Detecting Speeding Violation,” would use built-in sensors to spot speeding cars. It could then take photos, record locations, and send this data directly to law enforcement.
While Ford argues this could make roads safer, many are concerned about privacy. The system essentially turns private vehicles into surveillance tools for the government. This raises serious questions about data privacy and government overreach.
It’s worth noting that Ford already sells driver data to insurance companies. This new technology could provide even more detailed information about people’s driving habits and locations.
Interestingly, this move comes as Ford scales back some of its electric vehicle plans due to low consumer demand. This highlights the tension between government push for “green” technology and actual market preferences.
Meanwhile, the federal government is also increasing its reach into private vehicles. President Biden’s 2021 infrastructure bill requires all new cars to have built-in breathalyzers by 2026.
As these changes unfold, American drivers are left wondering: Are we trading too much privacy for promised safety improvements?
