NISSAN TESTS ON-BOARD BREATHALYZER SYSTEM

Nissan says it is testing a new on-board breathalyzer system to prevent drunk driving in cooperation with local Japanese authorities. If the system detects alcohol above the legal limit on the driver’s breath, the ignition will be disabled through an “interlock” mechanism.

In a statement, Nissan said it is “actively engaged in developing a wide range of technologies to improve road safety through the prevention of drunk-driving.” In June, the company introduced a new message alert against drunk-driving through its
Carwings navigation system.

The system is installed on daily-operating vehicles where the drivers will monitor various factors such as functionality and alcohol-detection reliability. Nissan will use these test results to further its research and development in preventive drunk-driving technology.

Although the system is only being considered in Japan, we feel it’s a matter of time before it reaches the US – if only through debate. Alcohol beverage companies are against interlock devices, but do you think some activists could someday seek to make the device mandatory? Let us know what you think at megan@winespiritsdaily.com