BMW has filed a patent for technology that can prevent drunk drivers from over-driving their vehicles Digital Key-Control app.
According to the website Auto Blog is the idea that the digital key app responsible for starting the car could retrieve data from a breathalyzer connected to the smartphone.
If the driver refuses to take the test or cannot prove that their blood alcohol level is below the legal limit, the car may remain blocked indefinitely.
In order not to leave the driver completely helpless, struck BMW suggested that the digital key app could still be used to unlock the doors and activate the infotainment and climate systems, minimizing the risk of a drunk user freezing outside or falling asleep while waiting for a taxi or ride.
This technology raises questions about how a person’s data might be used and whether their breathalyzer results would be recorded and potentially even sold to insurance companies. It should be noted that GM has already been sued for selling user data.
However, this patent also highlights that humans have shown time and time again that they cannot always be trusted to make confident decisions. Therefore, if the German manufacturer’s idea saves some people’s lives, it can’t be so bad.
Photos: BMW. This content was created using AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
