Used car news: EDR boxes not a bad idea

05 November 2009

Those planning to sell off their used car in the next decade may find 'black box' technology is installed in its replacement.

Used car owners thinking of selling off their motor in the next few years may find that 'black box' technology is installed in its replacement.

EU research recently concluded that event data recorders (EDRs) - similar to those used in aeroplanes - could help explain the causes of accidents by retaining information taken when a vehicle abruptly brakes and crashes.

Despite privacy concerns, Institute of Advanced Motorists chief examiner Peter Rodger said these were "not a bad idea".

But in terms of safety, EDRs will not prevent accidents, he explained.

"The only way it affects how people drive is the cultural thing of 'there's a black box watching me so I'll be careful'. Some people will be affected by that and some people won't."

However, Mr Rodger concluded that the data recorded by EDRs could be very useful to an investigation. Its long-term importance is debatable, he added, because drivers will eventually get used to them and be unaffected.

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