New AI Tracking Technology Requirements for Automakers
Automakers are now faced with a deadline to adhere to new AI tracking technology regulations by the year’s end.
This technology involves installing a camera that directly monitors the driver’s facial movements and other bodily functions.
The push for this requirement comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, aiming to decrease the number of fatalities linked to drunk driving. In fact, Congress cites a cost of over $44 billion attributed to drunk driving incidents in 2010.
Section 24220, known as “Advanced Impaired Driving Techniques,” specifies that advanced prevention technologies “must be standard equipment in all new passenger vehicles” to help prevent fatal accidents caused by alcohol impairment.
These technologies are meant to “passively monitor” driver behavior to determine if a driver might be impaired, to actively “restrict or prevent operation” of the vehicle if impairment is detected, and to accurately gauge whether a driver’s blood alcohol content meets or exceeds the legal limit.
Reports suggest that this technology could be intrusive, utilizing AI-driven sensors and cameras to continuously assess the driver’s mental state.
One such device includes an infrared camera strategically placed on the steering column to track the driver’s eye movements and pupil dilation. Some systems also assess signs of drowsiness.
In the event the AI identifies impairment, it has the capacity to restrict ignition or limit vehicle speed.
For example, Magna, a manufacturer working with General Motors, has developed a system that features cockpit-embedded sensors to monitor a driver’s breath and pupil responses to assess blood alcohol levels.
Furthermore, GM is reportedly developing its own alcohol detection systems, with researchers exploring touch-based methods for recognizing impairment. This involves analyzing alcohol levels beneath the driver’s skin surface.
While the technology promises increased safety, some might find it cumbersome, as it employs “tissue spectroscopy” to measure alcohol concentration in the driver’s fingers and palms.
At present, these tracking requirements only apply to new passenger vehicles.
