The Department for Transport recently completed research into intelligent speed adaptation (ISA) systems, the main aim of which was to look at the effect on driver behaviour over time. This found that ISA has the potential to reduce the number of deaths and injuries on our roads, suggesting that ISA could be a useful road safety feature for drivers who wish to use it.
The results were published on 15 September 2008 and the final report and an executive summary were placed in the Libraries of both Houses. The report is also available on the internet at:
www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/roads/vehicles/intelligentspeedadapt.
Data from this work have subsequently been used by the Commission for Integrated Transport and the Motorists' Forum for independent research looking at speed limit adherence and its effect on road safety and climate change. The Department was represented in an advisory capacity on the working group for this research. We have received a copy of their report which was published on 30 December 2008. We are clear that any future use of ISA should be taken forward by the motoring industry in response to consumer demand, just as with other technologies available for consumers to purchase if they so choose. We are working with industry and other stakeholders to facilitate the future availability of the technology.