A look into the eyes

Cars should recognize drunk drivers by camera

Alcohol consumption can often be recognized by the glassy look in the other driver's eyes. In future, the interior camera of cars could also be able to detect drunk drivers and prevent the engine from starting.

Scientists at Edith Cowan University in Australia have now presented corresponding image recognition software. With the help of artificial intelligence, it should know whether a person has been drinking and how much. Among other things, the direction of gaze and head position are taken into account.

In the EU, every new car must already have an interface for a breathalyzer in order to be approved. The test device itself - a breathalyzer as used in police checks - does not have to be present. The main aim of the regulation is to prevent professional drivers from driving under the influence of alcohol.

The image recognition software could simplify this. Today, interior cameras are in fact also standard equipment in new cars.