Nissan Introduces Anti-Drunk Driving Proof of Concept Vehicle

Drunk driving is a global issue. Here in the United States, 13,470 people were killed in crashes involving a drunk driver in 2006, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Each year, a quarter of a million others are injured in alcohol-related traffic crashes.

Nissan is committed to helping reduce these fatalities and injuries. In Japan, we recently revealed a production model Nissan Fuga sedan that showcases multiple advanced technologies designed to help reduce drunk driving. This new "proof of concept" vehicle was developed to research and showcase breakthrough technologies that could potentially be applied in Nissan's vehicles on the global market in the future.

The first step in helping to prevent drunk driving is stopping an intoxicated driver from getting on the road. The research vehicle features an alcohol sensor built into the transmission shift knob that detects the presence of alcohol in the perspiration of the driver's palm as they attempt to start driving. If the alcohol level detected is above a pre-determined threshold, the system automatically locks the transmission, immobilizing the car. The vehicle then gives a voice alert through the navigation system to explain why the vehicle is immobilized. Alcohol odor sensors are also built into the driver's and passengers' seats to detect the presence of alcohol in the air of the vehicle.

The concept Fuga also has technologies that detect behavior related to drunk driving. A facial recognition system monitors the driver’s awareness through the blinking of the eyes. Other technology monitors the behavior of the vehicle (for example, sensing if the vehicle is veering out of its lane). When the signs of drowsiness or inattentiveness associated with drunk driving are detected, visual and audible alerts are issued. The seat belt also tightens to gain the driver's immediate attention.

Nissan also is supporting efforts to help reduce drunk driving. In the United States, we are providing our experience and knowledge in support of the Blue Ribbon Panel for the Development of Advanced Alcohol Detection Technology. This data driven, cooperative research initiative provides another avenue for potential future technology development.