In an effort to help curb the growing number of alcohol-related road mishaps that kill thousands every year, Saab has designed its AlcoKey, a car key equipped with a mouthpiece and a breathalyzer. The driver breathes into the device which then sends a signal to the car’s electronic control unit through a radio transmitter. If the device detects alcohol in the driver’s breath sample that is above the permitted levels, the car’s electronic unit will immobilize the engine.
The Saab AlcoKey project is being supported by the Swedish National Road Administration. It is currently being tested in Sweden. It’s quite easy to use and is relatively affordable. If trials prove to be successful, it may be offered through Saab dealers in Sweden and elsewhere around the world.